Adoration (Movement 1 from Symphony of Prayer) - By J. Eric Schmidt

A gently mysterious introduction leads us on a lyrical journey that culminates with a powerful and majestic final statement. This first movement from Symphony of Prayer explores the various quiet, and not so quiet manners, in which adoration can be expressed. Two beautiful and austere themes highlight this deeply personal and moving work. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

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Adrenaline Rush - By Robert E. Foster

The title explains just what is going to happen as you open with this thriller for young band. Rob Foster shows an intimate knowledge of the grade 1 band and its capabilities. It is equally at home as an opener or closer for your concert.

Advance of the Roman Legions - By Michael Story

Musically presenting all the majesty and grandeur of ancient Rome, this original is a bold contest opener or closer that will permit your ensemble to sound confident. Introducing just a few accidentals and reviewing how long they last, this regal and distinguished original work will fill the stage! (2:15)

Adventum - Arr. Jared Barnes

This arrangement captures the anticipation, arrival, and celebration of the holidays through the use of sacred and secular carols alike. The piece opens with a quiet setting of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," then continues with a colorful and energetic rendition of the "Ukrainian Bell Carol" before drawing the piece to an exciting conclusion against a cacophony of ringing bells. (4:05)

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Affirmation Overture - By Robert W. Smith

With a supremely atmospheric setting, this original overture provides a crisp, grand major work with wonderful content, but minimal technical demands. Sweeping lyrical thematic material meshes superlatively with strong rhythmic content. This work packs the power to captivate for concert or contest.

Africa: Ceremony, Song, and Ritual - By Robert W. Smith

A stunning work of gigantic proportion---filled with the mystery, the fire, and the intrigue of the Dark Continent. A large percussion section will give this composition its drive. Robert suggests that all available percussionists encircle the audience in the final section, drawing the audience inside the worship circle. (9:00) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

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African Adventure - By Robert Sheldon

Take your young musicians and the audience on a trip to a mysterious continent with this tuneful and rhythmic offering. The tribal Swahili beat and authentic-sounding harmonies will provide a colorful and vibrant moment on your next concert. "African Adventure" correlates to Book 2, Level 3 of Sound Innovations for Concert Band. It is an enhanced version of the popular piece of the same name that appears in Sound Innovations, Book 2.

African Alleluia - Traditional / arr. John O'Reilly

This piece is a joyous arrangement of the popular Kenyan song "Wana Baraka." Repeating percussion patterns utilizing cowbell, claves, tom tom, and bass drum provide a solid rhythmic foundation for the catchy syncopated melody. A typical call-and-response section gives this arrangement an authentic African feel.

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African Bell Carol (for Percussion and Winds) - Traditional / arr. Robert W. Smith

The traditional "Ukranian Bell Carol" has been expertly scored in a multi-cultural setting for young band and percussion by veteran arranger Robert W. Smith. The arrangement begins quietly with percussion disguising the familiar melodic material. A series of musical evolutions builds to an impressive conclusion. This selection is sure to be a holiday treat for years to come. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.

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African Dreams - By Brant Karrick

William Kamkwamba was raised in Malawi, an African country where magical thoughts prevailed but modern technology was a mystery. From books he read, young William imagined building a windmill that might, one day, bring electricity and water to his village and drastically change the lives of his neighbors. Hoping to someday study science, his country was debilitated by famine that forced William to drop out of school and forage for food as thousands throughout the country died of starvation. However, William's passion remained indefatigable and, using scrap metal, tractor parts, and bicycle halves, he ingeniously built a crude yet operable windmill that powered four lights and his radio. News of William's achievement soon spread beyond his country's borders, and the young boy who was once thought of as crazy became a hero to many around the world. (5:30)

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