March Classics for Community Band Monday, July 24, 2023
recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist
Americans We by Henry Fillmore/arr. Robert E. Foster, Grade 4
This may be one of the most popular marches of the hundreds that were written by Henry Fillmore. Robert Foster has clarified some inconsistencies in the original quick-step size edition and provided extensive program notes on performing this marvelous march.
Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite by Karl L. King/arr. Andrew Glover, Grade 4
Unquestionably Karl King’s masterpiece, “Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite” March is now available in this wonderful new centennial edition arranged by Andrew Glover. Fully restored from the original 1913 edition, and with carefully edited parts for modern band, your audience will thrill to the exciting sounds of the circus with this brilliant march! Includes many pages of extensive historical and performance notes as well as biographical information on the composer.
The Black Horse Troop by John Philip Sousa/arr. Frederick Fennell, Grade 3
6/8 provides the perfect style to salute noble riders and their steeds. Fanfarish flairs, and an especially tuneful trio the audience will leave whistling (and in step!).
Entry of the Gladiators by Julius Fucik/arr. J.S. Seredy/ed. Van B. Ragsdale, Grade 4
One of the most popular European-style marches, “Entry of the Gladiators” is best-known to many listeners as the entry music of the traditional circus. This popular classic, with its oh-so-hummable trio, is presented here in a first-class edition for concert band that will light up any program by a group that can tackle it with the requisite energy and fire.
Liberty Bell March by John Philip Sousa/arr. Keith Brion & Loras Schissel, Grade 3.5
An authentic John Philip Sousa, Inc edition of the famous classic march created from Sousa’s own band parts by Keith Brion & Loras Schissel. Includes copious notes and performance suggestions including the various chime parts used by John Philip Sousa himself. This familiar patriotic standard should be in every band library.
Radetsky March by Johann Strauss/arr. Alfred Reed, Grade 3.5
An outstanding arrangement of the famous Strauss march which retains all of the charm of the original. Arranged by Alfred Reed, this march provides an opportunity for directors to program a European style march in a version that takes advantage of all of a concert band’s capabilities!
National Emblem March by E.E. Bagley/arr. Frederick Fennell, Grade 4
Known as Frederick Fennel’s favorite march, E.E. Bagley’s composition is often misunderstood as a John Phillip Sousa tune. Incorporating The Star-Spangled Banner and original music, this favorite warhorse march will surely bring smiles to the faces of your audience and students alike. One of the greatest marches of all time, this rousing epitome of band marches belongs in every good band library.
Rolling Thunder March by Henry Fillmore/arr. Andrew Glover, Grade 4
Oil up the valves and slides, take a deep breath and away you go with one of Henry Fillmore’s greatest and most dynamic circus marches. At the circus it was used to generate excitement while on the concert stage it’s known as show-stopper. Your mature band will love this impressive and challenging arrangement of a true march classic!
Semper Fidelis by John Philip Sousa/arr. Keith Brion & Loras Schissel, Grade 3.5
This special edition has been created from the original Sousa traveling band’s parts and includes extensive rehearsal and program notes for directors about the performance practices of the period.
Washington Post by John Philip Sousa/arr. Keith Brion & Loras Schissel, Grade 3.5
One of Sousa Best! Includes historical information and notes about the performance practices of the Sousa band. This is THE edition of this incredibly popular march!
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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.