SKU: BT.DHP-0960683-010

The Russian ballet director Sergei Diaghilev commissioned many composers to write music for the theatre. This was what caused Serge Prokofiev to compose the four part Scytische Suite (also known as Ala and Lolli) in 1916, from which The Enemy God and the Dance of the Spirits can be heard on this CD. This suite is one of Prokofiev's first works, and received negative criticism following its first performance on account of its being uncivilised. Prokofiev himself wrote after this first performance . . . The timpani player beat the skin of the timpani to tatters, and the whole orchestra voiced a protest. A cellist complained that he only put up with the violence, createdby the blaring brass, on account of his sick wife and three children . . ..

SKU: KJ.JB118F

UPC: 084027053553.

Written as a companion piece with Border Dance (JB117), Stranger At My Door is written in memory of Peg Bowden, a resident of southern Arizona, who was active in groups assisting migrants by providing food, shelter, clothing and medical assistance. Peg's book Stranger At My Door chronicles her involvements with a migrant who appeared at her doorstep one Christmas Eve in desperate need. Composer Jack Stamp opens this tone poem with a rendition of O Little Town Of Bethlehem accompanied out of time by a haunting melody in the low winds. An original melody, Peg's Theme and the hymn tune Bera (The Hymn of the Good Samaritan from 1849) are first presented plainly, then interwoven in a rhythmic fantasia of fugato fragments. Peg's Theme returns in its fully-harmonized form and the work ends in peaceful introspection. Solos for Flute, Clarinet, Bassoon, and Bass Clarinet, as well as solis for trumpets and trombones are featured. Although Stranger At My Door incorporates a well known Christmas carol, it is appropriate for all seasons due to its timeless message of selflessness in the face of danger.

SKU: FJ.B1236S

English.

A beautiful hymn with rich harmonies and suspensions opens this fine work for beginning bands. As the lyrical melody reaches a final cadence, the piece then moves into a bombastic chant with a wealth of percussion. The theme is presented in different textures and students will explore the basic components of a fugue in an easy setting. Listeners and performers alike will be excited by the rhythmic drive of the percussion. In addition, consider using the opening as a daily chorale to work on intonation with your ensemble.

About FJH Beginning Band

Appropriate within the first year of instruction and beginning of the second year. Clarinets do not go above the break, and there is limited use of accidentals. Plenty of doublings in the lower voices. Grade 1.

SKU: CL.011-4856-00

This original rock-style power ballad is a musical journey for young people of all ages! Finding My Way begins with a lyrical statement, tentative at first, which gradually grows in confidence. The ballad finds its way in the second theme, building into a bold and affirmative musical statement that drives to a joyous conclusion. Lyrical melodies accompanied by gentle rock rhythms are laid over percussion parts that combine to give the presence of a full drum set backing up the band in this fun piece. Find YOUR way, and rock on!

About C.L. Barnhouse Command Series

The Barnhouse Command Series includes works at grade levels 2, 2.5, and 3. This series is designed for middle school and junior high school bands, as well as high school bands of smaller instrumentation or limited experience. Command Series publications have a slightly larger instrumentation than the Rising Band Series, and are typically of larger scope, duration, and musical content.