EXCELCIA MUSIC Five Star Features for Band Monday, January 23, 2023
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
All the Pretty Little Horses arr. Jason K. Nitsch, Grade 3
One of most hauntingly beautiful folk songs is given a fresh new modern treatment by composer Jason K. Nitsch. Jason keeps the mysterious integrity of the song, while adding colorful timbres and textures in winds and percussion, along with creative harmonic choice. This is simply beautiful!
Cuyahoga River March by John M. Pasternak, Grade 3
“Cuyahoga River March” is a delightfully tuneful new march from composer John M. Pasternak. It is written in standard American march form and classic in style. Musicians and audiences will leave humming every time!
Dark Star by Christina Huss, Grade 1
This piece is strong right from the start, and features your budding low brass and woodwind players. They receive the bulk of the aggressive minor thematic material. Christina Huss is a composer to watch for young band music students will love to play!
Soaring Valor by David Samuel, Grade 1.5
You and your students will get the feeling of flying in this lush and delightful new piece from composer David Samuel. It will make your band sound its best.
Vanquish by Bruce W. Tippette, Grade 3
Vanquish is a cinematic piece that takes the listener on a musical journey. The piece begins dark and foreboding with well-placed harmonic tension that leads to an up-tempo driving section of the main material before a development and interplay between the two sections of the work.
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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.