News & Views Sunday, May 19, 2024

New LEROY ANDERSON Titles for Community Band Wednesday, May 08, 2024

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

The Girl in Satin by Leroy Anderson/arr. R. Mark Rogers, Grade 3
This reimagined band edition by Mark Rogers breathes new life into an absolute gem by Leroy Anderson. This publication features the first full score offered with the parts – as well as an alternate transposition in C to avoid some of the technical difficulties bands may encounter with the composer’s original key.

China Doll by Leroy Anderson/arr. R. Mark Rogers, Grade 3.5
The year 1951 was very productive for Leroy Anderson. For a recording project with Decca records in June of that year he composed a number of his most popular pieces, many of which were played for the first time in these sessions, including this delightful composition, “China Doll.” It’s a great choice for any time of year, but is also an ideal substitute to the perennial holiday favorite, “Sleigh Ride.” This publication is the first-ever to offer a full score, edited by Mark Rogers.

Horse and Buggy by Leroy Anderson/arr. R. Mark Rogers, Grade 4
Like Anderson’s signature piece “Sleigh Ride,” “Horse and Buggy” is another example of his extraordinary ability to sketch a nostalgic scene in sound on a small canvas without a wasted motion. Here, a different horse pulls a different vehicle through a vanished landscape of long ago. This exclusive Southern band edition by Mark Rogers reintroduces Anderson’s enchanting work to new generations of audiences.

Serenata by Leroy Anderson/arr. R. Mark Rogers, Grade 4
“Serenata” was first performed on May 10, 1947 as an encore at the Boston Pops, with Arthur Fiedler conducting. Fiedler would later praise the piece as among the conductor’s favorites. Lyrics were added by Mitchell Parish in 1950, which would lead to recordings by the likes of Sarah Vaughan and Nat King Cole. With a beguine rhythm as a background, Anderson’s inspiration from the Latin-American serenade would give the piece its title. This publication is the first-ever to offer a full score, edited by Mark Rogers, offering Anderson’s enchanting work to new generations of audiences.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

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