News & Views Tuesday, April 01, 2025

And the Lions ROARED! Animal Antics for Concert Band Monday, March 31, 2025

recommended by Ken Tilger and Austin Swack, Band Education Specialists

And the Lions Roared by Carol Brittin Chambers, Grade 1.5
Carol Brittin Chambers opens with a roar (literally) in this new work for developing band. Fun, fast, and full of great teaching opportunities, “And the Lions Roared” will be a hit with both your musicians and audiences, but especially your percussion section!

Across the Alaskan Snow by JaRod Hall, Grade 2.5-3
Unleash the spirit of adventure with music inspired by the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. This stirring musical journey will transport audiences across icy plains and beneath dazzling sunsets, leaving them with a deep appreciation for the relentless pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity.

Songs of the Seas by David Shaffer, Grade 2.5
David Shaffer’s “Songs of the Seas” is a beautiful-four movement musical narrative depicting colorful creatures of oceanic life. Each movement colorfully depicts a different inhabitant of maritime life: “The Jolly Goldfish,” “Whale Watching,” “Fish of Angels,” and “Crab Walk.” The charming and sardonic poems of humorist Ralph Venezia (included in the scores) can be read before each movement to introduce each sea creature.

Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

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!

< Previous