News & Views Saturday, December 21, 2024

Pop, Stage & Screen Releases for COMMUNITY BAND Monday, June 03, 2024

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

David Bowie: The Hits arr. Patrick Roszell, Grade 3
Bowie. Some artists only need to be known and recalled by one name. This fantastic medley contains three of his biggest hits. The jazzy and funky “Let’s Dance,” the ethereal “Space Oddity,” and the ever-grooving hit, with rock group Queen, “Under Pressure.”

Stardust arr. Paul Clark, Grade 3
Written in 1927, “Stardust” has been recorded over 1,500 times and is now considered to be part of the Great American Songbook. This stellar Paul Clark arrangement includes the 16 bar introduction, followed by solo trumpet on the first verse. Full ensemble plays the 2nd verse, with a solo trumpet ending that’s as pretty as stardust. A classic arrangement of a great American standard. Perfect for adult community bands as well!

Thriller arr. Erik Morales, Grade 3.5
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” remains one of the most popular hits of all time, and this iconic band arrangement by Erik Morales captures the smash hit in all its glory. In addition to drum set, optional electric bass and synth keyboard bring the music to life.

Good Omens (Theme) arr. Michael Brown, Grade 3
The quirky British television series “Good Omens” (starring David Tennant and Michael Sheen) features a suitably distinctive and appealing main theme by scoring master David Arnold. Part sinister, and part fun, you don’t have to be a fan of the series to enjoy this clever arrangement.

Music from Annie arr. Michael Kamuf, Grade 3.5
Bring the music from one of the greatest musicals of all time, “Annie,” to your concert hall. This exciting arrangement by Michael Kamuf includes three of the show’s most iconic songs, “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and “Tomorrow,” and makes the perfect closing selection for your next concert!

Theme from New York, New York arr. Erik Morales, Grade 2.5
Treat your audience to one of the most iconic songs of all time while introducing jazz and swing concepts at a very approachable level. Erik Morales has done a fantastic job with this arrangement of “New York, New York,” which requires no extra instrumentation to be as cool as the original. Perfect to showcase music from the Broadway show.

Raiders March by John Williams/arr. Jay Bocook, Grade 4
One of the most iconic movie themes ever written, here is John Williams’ classic scored for mature ensembles. This dynamic arrangement also includes a brief lyric moment from “Marion’s Theme.”

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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!

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