ETERNAL FLAME: 2024 Five Star Features for Symphonic Band Friday, November 15, 2024
recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists
Eternal Flame by Brian Balmages, Grade 4.5
This thrilling and majestic overture pays homage to the eternal flame memorial dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients. Sweeping fanfares, stately themes, and nods to “America” remind the listener of the incredible sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
Lucid Dreams by Adrian B. Sims, Grade 4.5
Travel to the unknown in this exciting work based on a five-note melodic idea that can’t quite make up its harmonic mind. The piece takes the listener through haunting and breathtaking musical hallucinations, concluding with glorious, dreamy chords.
Luminosities by Evan VanDoren, Grade 5
“Luminosities” is an electrifying overture for a mature wind ensemble that masterfully encapsulates the mesmerizing vibrance and comforting warmth of light itself. Bursting with triumphant brass fanfares, lively rhythmic exchanges, and vivid color flourishes, this composition promises to set a riveting tone as the opening act of any concert. Echoing a powerful message of hope, this brilliant work is sure to inspire both listeners and musicians to radiate their unique light.
Piccolodia by Jerry Brubaker, Grade 4
A creative and exciting work for solo piccolo with concert band accompaniment, “Piccolodia” by veteran composer Jerry Brubaker is the ideal piece to feature your outstanding piccolo soloist! Written in three sections, the opening features a driving melodic theme with sweeping runs, demonstrating great soloist dexterity. The middle section is very ballad-like and depicts the soloist’s friendships through various duets with many other instruments. “Piccolodia” concludes with a festive samba which is sure to have your audience dancing in the aisles!
Tarantula (Introduction & Tarantella) by Andrew Boysen Jr., Grade 5
“Tarantula” explores the origins of the tarantella dance. Said to be caused by the bit of a poisonous spider, the dance becomes wilder and wilder leading to the dancer collapsing from exhaustion! Beginning with an optional (but highly preferred) classical guitar solo that introduces the two main themes for the work the tempo increases substantially as the victim begins to dance the tarantella. Although the basic structure of the piece is a traditional sonata form, there is a constant sense of increasing intensity and anxiety throughout the work, until the coda finally accelerates to a frenzied conclusion. A true showstopper!
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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!