The Fencing Master

Originally published by Carl Fischer in 1932, this rediscovered treasure of the concert march world has been rescored for the modern concert band. Written in traditional march form, all sections are featured. A pleasant opening strain moves into an interesting trio with a legato trumpet melody set against high woodwind arpeggios before a more strident presentation of the same theme. With multiple dynamic contrasts and interesting countermelodies for all sections, this march is a great opportunity to teach traditional march form while also presenting a gem of the march repertoire that is unknown to many audiences.

The Fledgling

A bird is considered to have fledged at the time when its wing muscles and feathers are sufficiently developed for flight. Musically depicting this stage of life by taking a simple theme and developing it through increasing energy and compositional voice layering, this piece for young bands has flowing woodwind lines, exciting countermelodies, and interesting rhythmic challenges. Multiple percussion parts will keep your performers interested. A great choice for concert and contest or as a concert opener or closer.

The Friendly Beasts - French Carol

Arranged to reflect the Medieval origins of this 12th century hymn, this beautiful setting offers great opportunities to develop unison phrasing of long melodic lines. With the melody set in both a 4 and 3 feel, this piece also introduces the concept of different meters. Although written primarily with holiday programs in mind, this piece also works well as a contrasting concert selection or ballad for contest.

The Gates of Horn

In the Odyssey, dreams come into the world through one of two gates. If they come through the gates of ivory they are false dreams. However, if they come into the world through the gates of horn they are true dreams that tell the user of things to be, or illuminate truth. The Gates of Horn is a dramatic piece for band that alternates a syncopated fanfare with a bold, yet lyrical theme. These contrasting ideas chase each other throughout the piece.

The Gauntlet - Matthew R. Putnam

The Gauntletis a piece written to sound bold and exciting while also being accessible to young performers with a limited range. Simple yet bold rhythms add excitement, heightened by the fact that every section has an opportunity to play melodic content. The interesting "development" section provides a contrast to the opening and helps to build the suspense before the return of the main theme. The percussion helps to drive the energy of the piece by providing a variety of colorful sounds including a gong solo at the end to signal the knight's triumph.

The Gift To Be Simple

This traditional Shaker song is presented with modern harmonies, rhythms, and instrumentation. Using ostinato patterns, long legato lines, and interesting percussion parts, this arrangement offers many interdisciplinary possibilities as well. Folk songs have long been an essential part of the concert band repertoire and this modern approach to a well-known melody can help teach this important style to performers in a new way.

The Gladiator (March)

The Grand Announcement

The Grand Announcement opens with bold fanfares and rhythmic vitality, setting the stage for a grand proclamation. The piece captures the excitement and anticipation of an important announcement, moving through contrasting sections that reflect different reactions to the message. The work is accessible yet sophisticated, showcasing the ensemble's ability to execute dynamic contrasts and expressive phrasing.

The Grand Tetons

The Teton Range is part of the Rocky Mountain chain, just east of the Idaho border and south of Yellowstone National Park. The name of this majestic range has its roots in the Shoshone "teewinet," meaning "many pinnacles." The opening measures of The Grand Tetons should be played broadly and majestically. Mixed-meters and a swing-like feeling are introduced later on, followed by more strident material leading to a recapitulation of the opening theme as the piece draws to a close.

The Greenbelt at Dusk - Gabriel Musella

This is a stunningly beautiful ballad for young band by composer Gabriel Musella. It is the perfect vehicle to stretch the musicianship of your maturing ensemble. Mr. Musella draws from his years of experience teaching bands in Texas to provide us with a heartfelt piece that is a study in instrumental color and textures.