May the Light Forever Shine: Five Star Features from BARNHOUSE Monday, December 19, 2022
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
May the Light Forever Shine by James Swearingen, Grade 4
Endless energy abounds with this exciting display of musical creativity from the pen of celebrated composer James Swearingen. You can be assured that every musician will be challenged to bring out the best of what their instrument has to offer. And when the opening section is completed, you’ll discover a beautiful solo featuring the alto saxophone. This heart-warming display of artistry will certainly leave everyone wanting for more.
The Best Moment of the Day by Rob Romeyn, Grade 2.5
Look no further for the quintessential concert opener for your young band! A powerful opening fanfare leads to a warm and flowing theme introduced by the clarinets. As the music develops, a secondary theme is introduced, proud and heroic in nature. This theme is fully explored amid varied harmonic structures and driving rhythms. Finally, the music ends as it began, with the powerful fanfare presented even stronger this time. Varied textures, memorable themes, and fresh, contemporary harmonies hold the interest of the listener, while providing some valuable teaching opportunities.
Colossus of Columbia March by Russell Alexander/arr. Andrew Glover, Grade 3.5
One of the truly great standard American marches is Russell Alexander’s “Colossus of Columbia.” This edition for the Barnhouse “Heritage of the March” series presents this classic march in a concert edition, adhering closely to the original 1901 publication. Toes will be tapping as your band plays this exciting and powerful march.
Kodama by Jeremy Bell, Grade 3
Experience the beauty of the Japanese countryside in this lyrical work depicting the forest spirits called “Kodama.” Shintoism believes that everything from pebbles, animals, and plants, to forces of nature like the wind or a river contains a distinct spiritual essence or kami. It teaches a respect and reverence for everything in the natural world. “Kodama” captures this essence, making heavy of use of pentatonic scales associated with Japanese folk music and emulating the style that makes it so unique.
And May We All by James Swearingen, Grade 3.5
This beautiful composition was commissioned to provide purpose, direction, and comfort for two individual High School Band programs from the same district during the years 2020-2021. Virtual learning was established and weekly meetings took place between conductors, students, and composer to collaborate on how the piece would be created. Later, the finished product was premiered individually by both ensembles and a large contingent of family, friends, and school officials were able to share in the positive experience of hearing the music performed in a live setting.
One Moment in Time by James Swearingen, Grade 2
If you’re looking for a Grade 2 piece that produces impact at the start of your concert, then you’ll definitely want to consider this outstanding work by celebrated composer James Swearingen. Brass, woodwinds and percussion all unite with the playing of a glorious fanfare. The best is yet to come, with wonderful themes that are layered over driving rhythms. The dramatic ending is a “wait and see moment” for what is sure to be an enthusiastic response by the entire audience.
Mischievous Behavior by Rossano Galante, Grade 4
“Mischievous Behavior” is an adrenaline-charged composition filled with comedic, playful themes and pulsating rhythmic accompaniment. Audiences will get their blood pumping while hearing this piece! An amusing, musical offering certain to delight audiences and performers alike!
Santiago by Karl L. King/arr. James Swearingen, Grade 2.5
Throughout time, the marches of Karl King have graced many concert halls in countless number of countries. His uncanny ability to generate a positive response from audiences of all ages is a testimony to his creative talents. Couple that with James Swearingen’s solid scoring and the rest is, as they say, the perfect combination of musical genius.
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About the Author:
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.