News & Views Thursday, April 03, 2025

FANTASTIC FANFARES: Five Star Features for Band 03 April, 2025

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Fanfare Esprit by Carol Brittin Chambers, Grade 3.5
Looking for a thrilling and spirited musical experience? Look no further than “Fanfare Esprit” by Carol Brittin Chambers! This piece will transport you to a world of classic fanfares with a twist, featuring lush melodies and intricate rhythms. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating musical journey!

Fanfare Gratiam by Ryan Nowlin, Grade 3
“Fanfare Gratiam” (meaning Fanfare of Thankfulness) is the perfect piece for your next concert. Use it to honor someone special in the audience. After the heroic and grandiose fanfare strains, the music calms for the statement of the community’s hymn-like expression of gratitude – still playful, always loving, but still quick and uplifting. The works concludes with a musical hug – where the band, starting with the lowest instruments, completely expands to its maximum range over an unchanging, E-flat pedal.

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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!

NEW FOR PENTECOST: Come Now, Spirit of God 02 April, 2025

recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist

Come Now, Spirit of God by Joseph M. Martin, SAB with piano and optional flute
This original minor-keyed Pentecost piece has a lovely text by Tina English. The vocal lines are easy to learn while still being musically and emotionally engaging. The flute part adds a great deal and is included in the octavo.

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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.