Song of Freedom - Manfred Schneider

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Song Of Freedom - Roland Barrett

Song of Freedom is a stately, dignified patriotic work reflecting the patriotic fervor of the United States of America. The unity and sense of purpose demonstrated by Americans in the fall of 2001, and the determination to support freedom throughout the world, are reflected in this original composition.

Song Of Friendship - Philip Sparke

Song of Friendship was commissioned by the Concert Band of Jumonji University, Saitama, Japan and their conductor, Yutaka Nishida. The commission marked the 50th year of Yutaka Nishida's involvement with bands as a player, conductor and radio presenter. The ceremonial Song of Friendship opens with an extended fanfare, largely featuring the brass section. This leads to the main theme, which develops slowly until it is played by the full band. A change of key signals a contrasting central section containing a quiet woodwind chorale, which grows until the return of the triumphant sounding main theme. Elements of the opening fanfare then close the work.

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Song of Gratitude - Thomas Doss

Song of Gratitude was written for an old friend. Many friendships that start off at a young age last for life and thus form a sort of connecting thread throughout one's existence. In this particular work, this notion is mirrored in a short motif that expands more and more and becomes more passionate until it finally settles down in a thankful closing passage.

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Song of Hope - Jan Van der Roost

2011 was a disastrous year for Japan: on March 11 the northeast of the country suffered a violent earthquake, which triggered a huge tsunami and caused massive damage to people and the environment. The ensuing problems with the nuclear reactor atFukushima only increased the misery: a black day in the country's history...One almost inevitable consequence of such dramatic circumstances is the particular damage suffered by the cultural arts. And so it was in Japan: various high school wind orchestras in the effected areas lost their practice rooms and/or instruments.It will take a long time before the damage suffered is repaired - and it will take great effort to overcome the psychological effects, too. Focusing on the latter, Yutada Nishida (director of The Bandwagon radio program) asked a few composers fora simple work that could be played by many orchestras. It just so happened that the Osakan Philharmonic Winds (with whom Jan Van der Roost had conducted a concert exclusively of his own works on September 25th) had had a similar idea. This concert saw the baptism of Song of Hope. This pieceimmediately struck a chord with musicians and audience alike: it begins bleakly in the low register and evolves to a more open, optimistic close. There really is hope for better times!

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Song of Hope - Johan Nijs

Song of Hope is built up around a main theme with some small motifs woven around it. With this quiet, delicate work, the Belgian composer Johan Nijs has reflected hope of peace in the future. The profound melody reminds us of the fact that a moment's rest is wonderful in the hustle and bustle of our stressful existence. Why not calm down your concert mood with this highly atmospheric work.

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Song Of India - Jirka Kadlec

Song Of India - Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

This sultry classical favorite from Rimsky-Korsakov is faithfully arranged for young bands by Andrew Balent. Andy has a knack for retaining the essence of standard classical epertoire, while toning the technical difficulties down to the students' ability levels. Paying close attention to dynamic changes and ensemble balance will make this a winner in contest and festival settings.

Song of Israel - Traditional

Song of Israel is based on a world-famous tune, the traditional song from Israel entitles Hatikva. Roland Kernen makes creative use of this melody, presenting it a variety of styles, including a section with a 'rock' feel, to produce a cheerful concert work.

Song Of Joy - Andrew Robertson Mackereth