ADVANCED FLEX TITLES for Concert Band Monday, April 24, 2023
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
Chorale and Allegro by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4
“Chorale and Allegro” captivates the imagination with a solemn chorale. As this lush chorale closes, the mood quickly transforms into an energetic allegro section filled with excitement throughout. Claude T. Smith concludes the composition with intertwines the ideas from the allegro section with portions of the opening chorale leading to an enthusiastic ending. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as thirteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Chorale Prelude: Rejoice Ye Pure in Heart by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4
“Chorale Prelude: Rejoice Ye Pure in Heart” is a dramatic and beautiful setting of the well-known hymn Rejoice Ye Pure in Heart. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as thirteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Cumberland Cross by Carl Strommen, Grade 4
Your band will sound great with Carl Strommen’s classic original piece. “Cumberland Cross” explores the rich American folk style in two sections. The first has broad, moving harmonies under a Shenandoah-like melody, and the second a lively dance reminiscent of Copland. It is not too difficult, yet very impressive!
Greensleeves (A Symphonic Setting) by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4
“Greensleeves” dates to the 16th century as a traditional English folk song. Claude T. Smith created a masterful setting of this timeless classic providing many solo opportunities and melodic interest throughout all the sections of the band. The use of standard and contemporary harmonies gives the listener a wonderful experience. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as thirteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Rondo (from Incidental Suite) by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4.5
“Rondo” from Incidental Suite is the third movement of this suite originally scored for concert band. This work is rhythmically engaging from beginning to end as the percussion establishes the rhythmic motives that move and transform throughout. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as thirteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Nocturne (from Incidental Suite) by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4.5
“Nocturne” from Incidental Suite is the second movement of this suite originally scored for concert band. This work highlights a beautiful melodic line filled with lush and occasionally dissonant harmonies. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as thirteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Symphonic Variations on In Dulci Jubilo by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4
“Symphonic Variations on In Dulci Jubilo” promotes joy and celebration. ‘In Dulci Jubilo’ is Latin for ‘in sweet rejoicing.’ The lovely choral beginning features the familiar carol “Good Christian Men, Rejoice,” and forms the groundwork for this unique setting of this timeless traditional Christmas carol. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as thirteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Tarantella (from Incidental Suite) by Claude T. Smith/arr. Joseph Benjamin Earp, Grade 4.5
“Tarantella” from Incidental Suite is the first movement of this suite originally scored for concert band. Claude T. Smith has elevated the basic meaning of tarantella creating engaging rhythmic interest throughout the duration of the movement. This flexible arrangement allows ensembles to perform the work with as few as fourteen musicians providing accessibility and flexibility for numerous instrumentation needs, while still allowing a full ensemble sound.
Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
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.