RWS Music Five Star Features Tuesday, February 28, 2023
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
Adventure Awaits by Evan VanDoren, Grade 2
“Adventure Awaits” captures the excitement felt at the start of something new. Appropriately challenging for a developing band, this brief concert opener provides opportunities to explore lyrical melodies, colorful harmonies, independent entrances, and more! Start your next concert with this energizing selection.
High Vibration by Christopher Kyle Green, Grade 4.5
A highly energetic concert opener, “High Vibration” is a bright and fast fanfare that will leave your audience in awe. This brilliantly scored fanfare will showcase the intensity of the brass section, the sweeping flourishes of the woodwind section, and the metallic nature of keyboard and auxiliary percussion. “High Vibration” emphasizes consistent transitioning from compound meter to simple meter exposing the ensemble to multiple time signatures and metric modulation.
Soaring Over High and Low Country by Robert W. Smith, Grade 3.5
Woodwind flourishes, soaring melodic lines and powerful brass characterize this new symphonic statement by composer Robert W. Smith. Inspired by the Carolinas, one of America’s most beautiful and historic regions, the composer takes us on a musically panoramic journey across the skies. From the mountains in the west (high country) to the Atlantic coast in the east (low country), the mid-Atlantic region epitomizes geographic and cultural beauty that is uniquely American and decidedly Carolinian.
Over the Hills by Alexandre Carlin, Grade 0.5
“Over The Hills” is the perfect introductory march for beginners. Utilizing limited ranges and rhythmic content, this piece depicts a pleasant walk of a group of children in the countryside. The march character reflects the spirit and hopeful nature of childhood exploration, much like the young players on stage joyfully playing this piece at their first concert.
The Dance by Robert W. Smith, Grade 4.5
Inspired by the paintings of impressionist Henri Matisse and featuring the alto saxophone, “The Dance” is the first movement of “Three Conversations With Matisse.” Along with the well known Matisse painting of the same name, this unique musical statement can be described as forbidding, menacing, tribal and ritualistic. Written for the accomplished saxophone soloist, the band accompaniment is well within the technical range of most high school, university and community ensembles.
The Blue Window by Robert W. Smith, Grade 4.5
Inspired by “The Blue Window” by Henri Matisse, this lyrical statement for alto saxophone and band is a subdued departure from the more colorful and powerful movements of “Three Conversations With Matisse.” Reflective and poignant, your soloist, ensemble and audience will be quietly enthralled in a musical setting that harkens to days gone by.
The Music Lesson by Robert W. Smith, Grade 4.5
Inspired by the command and structure of two Henri Matisse paintings under the name “The Music Lesson,” this powerful work for alto saxophone and band will become a staple of the repertoire. From the strict structure of the opening piano statement to the classically influenced melodic interplay with the saxophone, the piece moves through a flowing musical environment highlighted by a virtuosic cadenza. The recapitulation of the initial melodic line completes our music lesson and provides a strong conclusion to “Three Conversations With Matisse,” a suite for alto saxophone and band.
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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.