ON THE HORIZON: Five Star Features from Make Music Thursday, November 09, 2023
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
On the Horizon by Katie O’Hara LaBrie, Grade 1.5
This powerful work represents vision and hope, inspired by Katie O’Hara LaBrie’s vision of a never-ending horizon. A beautiful opening suggests the sun rising on a new day before moving into a triumphant melody with uplifting woodwind interludes. The music embeds a strong sense that one can be ready for anything that lies ahead “On the Horizon.”
Emblazoned by Brian Balmages, Grade 2.5
As the title “Emblazoned” suggests, this euphoric celebration will undoubtedly make its mark on your students and audience! Simple polyrhythms combine with an engaging melody, heroic countermelodies, and riveting percussion writing to create an energetic yet exceptionally playable work. Even better, Brian Balmages has orchestrated the piece so that it achieves a high level of power and excitement while leaving students with plenty left in the tank!
Inspiration Fanfare by Adrian B. Sims, Grade 2
Fueled by the inspiration of morning sunlight, Adrian Sims has written this colorful fanfare depicting joy and opportunity. The opening statement transforms throughout the piece, providing musically engaging parts for all. Extremely playable yet sophisticated in sound, Inspiration Fanfare creates a sense of anticipation and excitement. A joyful celebration of music!
Leading Light by Jack Wilds, Grade 2.5
Based on a school’s powerful growth in the arts, this piece follows a single melody from a slower, quiet beginning filled with potential into a faster section crackling with energy. The theme steadily builds momentum through each variation until it reaches a joyful outpouring of sound in the final bars.
Struck by the Ree by William Owens, Grade 2
Honoring the legacy of Yankton Sioux Chief Palaneapape (“Struck by the Ree”) and his tireless efforts to foster peace, this musical tale portrays war, resolution, and escalating tensions. Thunderous percussion and strong melodic statements contrast with gentle and serene moments as William Owens pays homage to an important figure in American history.
Time Lord by JaRod Hall, Grade 1.5-2
If a time-traveling superhero were the conductor of a concert band, this is the music they would play! Inspired by an incredible battle sequence, “Time Lord” dives into time signature changes at an introductory level while maintaining an epic tone throughout. JaRod Hall does an incredible job of making this piece exciting, pedagogical, and extremely playable!
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About the Authors:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in Central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!