2018 Midwest Concert Band Selections

Add a touch of whimsy and joy to your next concert! Inspired by the composer's love of Percy Grainger, Frogs combines many "Grainger-isms" with quirky percussion and accessible rhythms and ranges

At the height of the Jazz Age, each of the major swing bands had their own signature sound that fans recognized immediately. This swinging composition puts these styles and rhythms together in homage to a

Energize your band with the exciting music that portrays two powerful sources of energy trying to interact and mesh. A driving, pulsating theme with accents in percussion and brass represent one form of

As the title implies, this remarkable composition contains several references to the number five. The 5/4 meter is an obvious connection; more subtle is the clever and prominent use of the interval of a

Beauty and joy are on full display. The classic Japanese folk song Sakura, Sakura introduces a charming, orchestral dance that is set in counterpoint to a warm, romantic melody. A solo for oboe

The transcription of this exuberant overture has become a staple of band repertoire and is a proven programming favorite. Constructed using two contrasting themes that combine near the end,

Be sure to consider this beautifully lyrical piece when looking for musical work to include on your young band concerts. Based on an original Shaker melody, it has been scored to be easily accessible to

Ignite your performance by opening with this spectacular burst of musical energy! A resplendent feature spot for the entire percussion section, this piece uses a single tempo throughout along with

From a song shared by this Squamish Nation artist and performer comes a unique work that allow your young players to experience the music of one of North America's First Nation peoples. Flowing smoothly

An African-American spiritual forms the basis for this creative and dramatic work for mature ensembles. Opening with a tender chorale-like statement, the piece evolves throughout with variations in mood,

The crystal sounds of metallic percussion and bell-like winds gently open, introducing the jubilant main portion of this work. The celebratory music exudes a joyous spirit as the tempo picks up and winds

This highly programmatic concert opener gives you a front-row seat in the viewing stands for this high-speed thrill ride. The opening section starts the engines, sets the pole position, and then the race is

A beautiful and poignant reflection on a young life ended too soon. Lush textures highlighted by an optional piano part guide the listener through this wonderfully lyric band work. It's sure to be an

You can't get any closer to flying than to take a wild ride on a zip line! Scared of heights? No problem! Fast-moving and active wind and percussion parts will have you flying through the air without ever

A musical setting of a medieval adventure. A triumphant fanfare opens, sending the brave knight off on a perilous journey. The music portrays the tale of the many obstacles and fierce sword fights

This spectacular tour de force was written in memory of the composer's mother and was inspired by her charitable deed one Christmas Eve. The resplendent writing includes unpredictable changes of style that

With melodies reminiscent of fiddle tunes and calliope music, this is a true celebration of country life. The musical imagery gives a Ferris-wheel view of the entire rollicking harvest fair. With temple

Celebratory in nature, this sparkling work presents vibrant musical material in luminescent layers of sound and a driving 7/8 meter. Every section is featured with music that seems to illuminate the

Across windswept dunes and barren plains, this eerie tale is whispered to us on the hot breath of the desert. It's a depiction of the ghostly dances of immortals who are not bound by the confines of their

A true band masterwork, Clare Grundman's Concord has become a staple in the wind band repertoire. The middle section of this work is a beautiful chorale based on the early hymn America by

It's midnight, and all the creatures of the night are gathering for some playful mischief. The instrumentation in this imaginative work constantly evolves, suggesting ghostly apparitions sliding in and out

The light and lively melodic quality of the opening reflects an unquenchable spirit and constant energy that is evident throughout this sweeping work. A quiet and serene middle section provides a lyric,