FJH MUSIC CONCERT BAND 2007 - 2008
FJH Symphonic Band Series Grade 4-5
Dreams and Proclamations - Roland Barrett. All of us are taught to have big dreams and to pursue those dreams. In the spirit of this ideal, Roland Barrett salutes all great dreamers by examining the connection between thought and deed, contemplation and action. Divided into six main sections, each "dream" passage leads to an ensuing "proclamation." Powerful, emotional, and energetic, the work moves to a fantastic close. Breathtaking! Grade 4 (B1336) $90.00
Rock Springs Saga - William Owens. Written largely in the Western genre, Rock Springs Saga begins with a brilliant fanfare, which recurs throughout the piece. A whimsical flurry of sounds and dancelike rhythms ensue before the music settles into a catchy Western melody that is passed throughout the ensemble. Just as it becomes familiar, the work bursts into a faster tempo before calming into a mysterious slower section. With the return of the opening tempo, a clever mixture of sounds and rhythms leads back to the opening theme as the piece ends in a whirlwind of sound. Sure to leave a lasting impression! Grade 4.5 (B1338) $95.00
With Ever Joyful Hearts - Erik Morales. This substantial work pays homage to Moravian heritage and covers the full gamut of emotions and styles. Opening with the simple sound of chimes, the work begins to develop as the brass section interjects magical fanfares. Woodwind flourishes abound throughout the work, which also includes plenty of expressive and lyrical opportunities. The magical ending unites all themes and leaves the audience with the impression of a huge cathedral organ. Impressive! Grade 4 (B1355) $55
Fusion - Brian Balmages. Just as its title suggests, this three-movement contemporary work draws from various types of pop music and dance forms, and sets them in a symphonic framework. The opening movement, Overture, is a short fanfare based loosely on Irish dance rhythms and melodies. The second movement, Ballad, receives its inspiration from various aspects of pop ballads, though no direct references are made. Dense harmonies and interesting textures play an important role throughout the movement. The final movement, Fusion, is a literal combination of rock, funk, swing, and classical in a contemporary setting. Intense and driving, this is an excellent concert finale! You may even want to consider performing the last movement alone as an encore. Grade 4.5 (B1324) $95.00
Winged Victory - Brian Balmages. This powerful composition links two historic landmarks in Kenosha, Wisconsin–a statue that commemorates those who fought in the name of freedom, and a lighthouse that united an entire town when they fought the government to prevent it from being torn down. Soft lyrical lines combine with powerful fanfares and uplifting themes as the work spans a wide range of emotions. While this version can be performed alone, supplemental parts are also available separately for elementary and intermediate bands (with ample amounts of rest), making this a powerful recruiting tool and a grandiose concert experience! Grade 4 (B1340) $75.00
FJH Concert Band Series Grade 3-3˝
Buccaneer Hornpipe - Chris Sharp. Experience the life of the 19th-century swashbuckler in this fantastic contest piece! The opening theme, The Pirate Life, recalls the lively dance music of pirates after a hard day. A beautiful and harmonically intricate lyrical section, Island Idyll, captures the peace and solitude of a beautiful sandy beach. What follows is the Wrath of Triton, a powerful storm that threatens the entire crew. Snapping beach towels simulate the sound of sails flapping in the wind during this dramatic voyage at sea. Very compelling! Grade 3 (B1354) $60.00
March Jubiloso - Darren Jenkins. This contest work is celebratory in nature and is marked by bold fanfares and sweeping countermelodies. Full of rhythmic vitality, the main theme has a heroic quality and continues to build through different sections. A lighter middle section is reminiscent of the flowing melodies and sparse orchestrations of Ralph Vaughan Williams. A final restatement of the opening theme moves into an exciting coda that drives the work to a triumphant conclusion! Grade 3.5 (B1331) $85.00
Three Scottish Vistas - William Owens. This short three-movement work paints a picture of one of the most beautiful and historically rich countries in the world. The first movement, This Proud People, quotes bits of Scotland the Brave, the unofficial anthem of Scotland, before introducing the sounds of a traditional pipe and drum band. The second movement, The South of Skye, pays tribute to countless quiet sandy beaches and small islands. The final movement, Glasgow, the West End, salutes this culturally rich area with a wild fiery jig that continues to accelerate to a powerful conclusion. Fantastic writing! Grade 3 (B1323) $85.00
Waves - Brian Balmages. This lyrical work conjures images of the tranquility of the sea through its constant rising and falling phrases. Dense harmonies overlap as musical lines swell in and out of each other to create a seamless tapestry of changing timbres. As the waves continue to grow, they eventually come crashing to shore in a brilliant climax before rolling back out to sea. Emotionally powerful and uplifting! Grade 3 (B1348) $55.00
Fanfare & Jubilation - Roland Barrett. A bold, brassy fanfare opens this short energetic work that is perfect as an opener or encore piece. With no tempo changes, the piece constantly builds in both dynamic and energy. As percussion takes over, the fanfare builds one final time as it is layered with the theme of jubilation in a spectacular and dramatic ending! Grade 3 (B1345) $65.00
Raiders of the High Sea - Erik Morales. A fun and fast-paced work, this overture from Erik Morales explores a variety of timbres and harmonies as it seamlessly moves through several themes in constant development. A bold opening fanfare contrasts with lyrical lines while a continuing rhythmic motif unites the entire work. This is one high seas adventure you will not want to miss! Grade 3 (B1330) $60.00
Tunderscape - Erik Morales. Experience the raw power of one of nature's greatest spectacles, the thunderstorm. The aggressive pace of this exciting work provides the backdrop for the main element, the thunder sheet. Exciting themes combine with dark harmonies as the brutal force is unleashed. Consider using one thunder sheet on each side of the ensemble to create a spatial effect that will really draw your audience inside the music! Grade 3.5 (B1332) $70.00
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FJH Young Band Series Grade 2-2˝
Epiphany - Erik Morales. This sensitive contemporary work was written in memory of a former teacher at a middle school that is now thought to be haunted. Crystal glasses help set the ethereal mood as the theme is developed and ultimately juxtaposed with two other themes presented later in the work. Extremely musical and emotional, yet approachable by younger bands. This is serious literature. Grade 2.5 (B1343) $50.00
Ghost Riders - Roland Barrett. Experience the legend of phantom cowboys in the American West. Inspired by multiple sightings of these apparitions, this exciting work paints a vivid portrait of a moonlit night just before the ghost riders come out of the shadows. A large battery of percussion adds depth and woodwinds perform some easy aleatoric passages to create tension and suspense. Thrilling! Grade 2.5 (B1335) $55.00
Starscapes - Brian Balmages. This three-movement programmatic work is based on various constellations and their Greek mythologies. Movements include Orion (The Hunter), Draco (The Dragon), and Pegasus (The Winged Horse). The opening movement paints a picture of the night sky before introducing the mighty Orion. The second movement depicts the fiery dragon and its fierce triple row of teeth. (An optional lion's roar enhances the movement.) The final movement takes listeners on a flight with Pegasus, beginning with a fast gallop on the ground before the magnificent animal takes flight. The movements can be performed separately or as a whole. Absolutely stunning! Grade 2 (B1333) $55.00
Cruisin' - William Owens. Come and take a carefree, fast-paced musical ride in this fun work that combines elements of rock and ragtime. Drum set is optional and is orchestrated for concert percussion for increased performance flexibility. Melodic material is passed throughout the ensemble as the work comes to a driving conclusion. It's time to roll down the windows and have a good time! Grade 2 (B1353) $60.00
Flutopia - David Shaffer. The ultimate flute feature for your next program! With the option of utilizing one, two, or even three flute parts, this lighthearted work combines whimsical lines with swing and a brief lyrical cadenza passage to showcase musicianship. Easy to put together and forever memorable! Grade 2 (B1350) $55.00
The Impossible Dream - Erik Morales. Experience boundless energy from the "impossible machine" that inspired this aggressive work! For centuries, mankind has searched for a way to develop a machine that can operate by producing its own energy. This exciting concept is harnessed in this tour de force for young band that will keep your audience on the edge of their seats. Great writing for all instruments, including a large battery of percussion. Grade 2.5 (B1339) $55.00
Sparks - Brian Balmages. Your group will shine in this magical work depicting how incredible things happen with just a small spark – whether it is a spark of the imagination or a tiny spark that becomes a magnificent fire. A tapestry of sounds is woven throughout the woodwinds and percussion as brass enters with bold fanfares to open the work. A lyrical middle section at the same tempo keeps the energy moving as the piece eventually drives toward a riveting finish. Spectacular! Grade 2.5 (B1327) $65.00
Winged Victory - Intermediate Supplemental Set B - Brian Balmages. Originally written for advanced symphonic band, this intermediate supplemental set can be played along with the original, and is perfect for a massed band performance or recruiting tool. Includes a reduction of the full score to aid with rehearsal. (Not playable without the advanced version (B1340)) Grade 2.5 (B1342) $50.00
FJH Developing Band Series Grade 1˝
At the River - Timothy Loest. Based on the gospel hymn Shall We Gather at the River? by American hymn writer Robert Lowry, this arrangement includes lush harmonic writing with optional drum set. A great study in musicianship, the work includes many changes in texture and dynamic contrast, and is a wonderful change of pace for your next program. (B1334) $45.00
Pride & Purpose - Patrick J. Burns. This dignified and stately work paints a musical portrait of the effort, dedication, and commitment that young musicians learn to develop on their path toward excellence. Students explore a variety of styles and colors while learning the basics of syncopation. Regal! (B1346) $45.00
Carpathia - William Owens. This powerful work depicts the frantic voyage of the RMS Carpathia, the first ship to arrive on the scene after receiving a distress call from the Titanic. Determined to save as many lives as possible, the captain managed to squeeze 17 knots out of a supposed 14-knot vessel. The music depicts the vibrations of the ship's hull along with the hissing of the boiler. As Carpathia arrives on the terrible scene, the music relinquishes its fast pace to a slow, mournful hymn. After a brief moment of tranquility, the music intensifies as the rescue ship embarks on her triumphant yet tragic return voyage to safety. Absolutely stunning! (B1349) $45.00
FJH Beginning Band Series Grade 1
Rocky Mountain Romp - Brian Balmages. This symphonic hoedown is reminiscent of Aaron Copland and salutes the rich traditions of the Rocky Mountains. Spirited melodies intertwine with engaging, easily achievable rhythms as the work evokes images of the West. Ideal for contest or festival, this piece will also work well for the lighter portion of your program. An optional advanced snare drum part is included for your developing percussionists. (B1356) $40.00
Winged Victory - Elementary Supplemental Set (A) - Brian Balmages. Originally written for advanced symphonic band, this elementary supplemental set can be played along with the original, and is perfect for a massed band performance or recruiting tool. Includes a reduction of the full score to aid with rehearsal. (Not playable without the advanced version.(B1334)) Grade 1 (B1341) $40.00
Parade of the Gladiators - William Owens. This rousing parade processional paints a vivid picture of the Roman gladiators and their entry into the arena. A bold opening statement moves into a more tender middle section before a climactic ending captures the true emotions of the event – from the maniacal excitement of the spectators to the uncertain future of the courageous warriors. Powerful! (B1326) $40.00
Ten Masters in Two Minutes - Timothy Loest. Treat your students and audience to a crash course in classical composers with this clever musical anthology of masterworks, including composers such as Schubert, Rossini, Brahms, Bach, Beethoven, Mahler, Handel, Offenbach, and even a mystery composer! Also included is a one-page study guide that is reproducible for student use. An invaluable teaching resource and excellent material for your next concert! (B1328) $40.00
FJH Starter Series Grade ˝
Dance of the Jabberwocky - Rob Grice. Inspired by a fictional character in one of the greatest of all nonsense poems by Lewis Carroll, this humorous depiction of the Jabberwocky includes trombone glissandi and a ratchet to add to the mayhem. A wonderful way to lighten your program with a work that is easy to put together and full of imagination! (B1337) $40.00
Quest of the Black Knight - Timothy Loest. This thrilling medieval adventure follows the Black Knight, guided by a code of chivalry and an unwavering commitment to courage, justice, and loyalty. A dark opening moves quickly into an energetic and adventurous theme with plenty of percussion to add to the texture. An optional advanced snare drum part is perfect for your talented percussionist. Easy music that sounds advanced! (B1334) $40.00
Midnight Madness (from Midnight Suite) - Brian Balmages. The third and final movement of Midnight Suite certainly lives up to its name! With the first two movements having become favorites of directors around the world, the final movement includes fanfares and short recurring rhythmic motives that really drive the music forward. Experience all the madness of this work, playable alone or with the first two movements, Midnight Mission and Midnight Sky. (B1329) $40.00
"Synergy" March - William Owens. This spirited concert march begins with a crisp melody and bold accompaniment. As it moves into the middle section, brass and woodwinds are featured separately, with percussion serving as a link between the two. Finally, the three groups combine to drive forward to an energetic, synergistic finish. Excellent for teaching march style with only 6 notes! (B1325) $40.00