March Madness for Community Band Wednesday, May 22, 2024
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Cosmopolitan America by Helen May Butler/arr. Clarence E. Barber, Grade 4
Helen May Butler was one of the most successful female conductors in the history of the concert band. Band music was a favorite of President Theodore Roosevelt and Cosmopolitan America was selected as the official march of the Republican Party during the 1904 election campaign.
Entry of the Acrobats by Kelly Bennette, Grade 3
Written in the style of the marches used in circuses to accompany acrobats, this march harkens back to a longstanding band tradition. Filled with surprises, filigree, and theater, it is a work that adds a special sparkle to a program.
Golden Panther March by Robert Sheldon, Grade 3.5
If a traditional march could be called “fresh and new!” “The Golden Panther March” would check every box. Composer Robert Sheldon has given us a wonderful new march in 6/8 that has all the calling cards of a traditional style march, perfect for contest & festival performance, with all of the modern charm we have come to love from this beloved composer. As well-suited to a concert opener as it is to an enthusiastic encore, the “Golden Panther March” will be the hit of any concert.
Auld Lang Syne by Karl L. King/arr. Andrew Glover, Grade 3.5
Karl King composed his “Auld Lang Syne” March using the oldest song of friendship as the basis for the trio, but cleverly interweaves various Scottish folk tunes in this beautifully crafted march. Perfect for a variety of performance situations, this march has a special stately quality to it which will impress audiences and challenge performers. This Karl L. King Centennial edition includes extensive historical background information, program notes, performance suggestions, and much more.
The Defending Circle by Karl L. King/arr. Gene Milford, Grade 3
This work received its title “from some ritualistic work of a certain fraternity.” Composed in 1913, the march is dedicated to Clive Dayton of Brighton, Iowa, a trombonist and the assistant conductor of the Barnum & Bailey’s Band under Ned Brill.
Excelsior by Karl L. King/arr. James Swearingen, Grade 2.5
Raise your baton and prepare yourself for a rewarding highlight moment as you conduct Karl King’s celebrated galop, aptly titled “Excelsior.” Your musicians will marvel at the clever writing style that is incorporated throughout the entire piece. And let us not forget the audience – much toe-tapping and the thunderous sound of applause following the last note is certain! This is the perfect galop to include at your next concert.
The Governor’s Own by Alton Adams/arr. Loras Schissel, Grade 4
Alton Adams was the first black bandmaster in the United States Navy, and perhaps the most popular. His bands were celebrated across the United States during his service years. He eventually rose to political prominence in the U. S. Virgin Islands.
Victory March by Bob Cerulli, Grade 2.5
“Victory March” brings a fresh, new sound to a familiar and revered form. This is partially a function of tonal center and partially due to sparkling melody and a well-constructed harmonic base. A splash of originality, the march fits well in just about any spot on a program.
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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!