REJOICE THE SEASON! Holiday Flex Band Titles Thursday, November 16, 2023
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Rejoice the Season arr. Rob Romeyn, Grade 3
This very clever festive work is the perfect opener or closer for your holiday concert! Familiar carols are very creatively woven together capturing the true joy of the season. A very expressive and beautiful treatment of “Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella” provides a wonderful contrast to the festive and energetic beginning and ending. This version, for the “Build-A-Band” series ensures success with even the most awkward of instrumentation. “Rejoice The Season” is sure to be a holiday favorite with school bands and adult community groups.
African Noel arr. Johnnie Vinson, Grade 1.5
Scored for second-year players and utilizing the 4-part flexible format, Johnnie’s setting uses a tuneful melody and characteristic percussion writing to provide a truly unique holiday offering.
Fanfare for the Faithful arr. Michael Kamuf, Grade 1
With an opening fanfare motif based upon melodic fragments of the familiar melody, this FLEX setting of the hymn-tune “Adeste Fidelis” puts a fresh spin on this beloved classic. The concepts of phrasing, dynamics, and style are reinforced, making “Fanfare for the Faithful” a solid programming choice as an opening or closing selection for your next holiday concert.
Tidings of Comfort and Joy arr. James Swearingen, Grade 3
This glorious setting of two classic carols, “What Child Is This?” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” is destined to be a popular choice when planning that special holiday performance. Expertly crafted, this delicate arrangement incorporates lush harmonies, soaring musical lines and limited technical demands. It is the perfect selection for establishing an expressive moment that will musically serve to inspire one and all.
Up on the Housetop arr. Haley Woodrow, Grade 1.5
Here is a familiar holiday tune but with some cleverly added twists and turns. The recurring 8th note pattern provides a great opportunity to teach a steady pulse, while the melody passed around to every part gives all players something fun to play. Scored in the 4-part flex format for second-year players.
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About the Authors:
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.
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!