News & Views Friday, November 08, 2024

NEW Five Star Features: Brilliant Programming for Concert Band Wednesday, October 30, 2024

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

Circles by Brian Balmages, Grade 3
This impressionistic work portrays a dark void with various colored circles spinning and gently colliding with each other. The vivid colors are incredibly unique for this level. Combine that with an extraordinary ending, and your audience is in for an amazing experience!

Gullah Ring Shout by Robert W. Smith, Grade 2.5
Explore and experience the rhythmic reverence of “Gullah Ring Shout!” Tradition meets innovation, and the pulse of ethnic rhythms intertwines with the melodies of today in Robert W. Smith’s mesmerizing homage to the Gullah Ring Shout – a cherished cultural heritage of resilience and celebration.

Insurgence by Rossano Galante, Grade 3
In a dystopian world of food inequality, the impoverished unite. The composition’s gripping narrative unfolds with powerful rhythms, fierce horns, and a lyrical interlude, conveying the relentless fight for equality in a post-apocalyptic society. Engaging and intense!

Rondo from Third Suite by Robert E. Jager/arr. Chris M. Bernotas, Grade 3
This arrangement from Jager’s timeless Third Suite is thoughtfully scored for intermediate-level bands. Memorable main themes and countermelodies, coupled with rhythmic drive, propel the music forward with momentum and excitement straight through to the end.

Scenes from Citizen 13660 by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 3
This programmatic, short-movemented suite by Yukiko Nishimura is based on drawings and text of Miné Okubo from the memoir CITIZEN 13660. As well as this wonderful expression of art from the composer, educationally this work offers a wide opportunity for teachable moments, critical conversation, and cross-curricular opportunities.

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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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