SKU: HL.4005248

UPC: 888680702373. 9.0x12.0x0.056 inches. Arr. Dan Woolpert/adpt. Michael Brown.

Music performed by bands of the Civil War era often included familiar airs and patriotic tunes. Included in this rousing medley is an early treatment of The Star-Spangled Banner (which wasn't recognized as the official national anthem until 1931). Also included is Yankee Doodle; Washington's March; and Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean.

SKU: HL.4002795

UPC: 884088280840. 9.0x12.0x0.063 inches.

Rhythmic and energetic, this lively work contains elements of an early American character but also features a poignant, calmer section with a lighter texture and interlaced lyric motifs. The piece builds to a dramatic peak with a powerful and majestic statement by the full ensemble. The final segment, however, becomes more and more frenzied with mixed meters and relentless percussion figures as it races to an exciting conclusion. Filled with humor and creativity, this unique composition will easily find a place in your contest or festival repertoire. Dur: 3:35 (Grade 4).

SKU: AP.47385S

UPC: 038081546643. English.

Literally translated to American peace, this musical journey celebrates the many positive things that America stands for: freedom, liberty, democracy, opportunity, and the pursuit of happiness. All are presented in distinct sections of the piece, culminating with a bold setting of America the Beautiful. Inspiring. (2:45) This title available in MakeMusic Cloud.

SKU: CF.CPS252F

ISBN 9781491159705. UPC: 680160918294.

America is intended for any intermediate to professional concert band looking to honor the United States of America and/or members of the Armed Forces. It is therefore ideal for performance on or around any patriotic holiday. It is not a typical setting of the tune, in that many liberties are taken to showcase each instrument of the ensemble, with the melodic focus constantly shifting. The conductor and performers should seek out these moments, and bring them to life whenever possible. The introduction, mm. 1-12, should be approached in the style of a fanfare, with an emphasis on syncopation and exaggerated nuance in regards to articulation style. Here, hidden beneath woodwind flourishes and triumphant bugle calls, the low voices play quotes of familiar American tunes such as The Star-Spangled Banner (m. 1, beat 3) and Simple Gifts (m. 3, beat 4). In mm. 15-22 the melody is carefully hidden among counter lines. This should be carefully balanced to highlight the melody, while still shaping the counter melodies appropriately. A brief return to the fanfare style occurs in mm. 33-35 before melding back into the chorale style. In regards to dynamics, performers should be reminded that within any single dynamic exists a range of expressive shades. No two notes should be played at the same volume, ensuring direction in even the simplest of phrases. Generally speaking, the fortissimo dynamic should be approached thoughtfully, with the bulk of the sound coming from the lowest voices, and the least from the highest voices.
America is intended for any intermediate to professional concert band looking to honor the United States of America and/or members of the Armed Forces. It is therefore ideal for performance on or around any patriotic holiday. It is not a typical setting of the tune, in that many liberties are taken to showcase each instrument of the ensemble, with the melodic focus constantly shifting. The conductor and performers should seek out these moments, and bring them to life whenever possible.The introduction, mm. 1–12, should be approached in the style of a fanfare, with an emphasis on syncopation and exaggerated nuance in regards to articulation style. Here, hidden beneath woodwind flourishes and triumphant bugle calls, the low voices play quotes of familiar American tunes such as The Star-Spangled Banner (m. 1, beat 3) and Simple Gifts (m. 3, beat 4). In mm. 15–22 the melody is carefully hidden among counter lines. This should be carefully balanced to highlight the melody, while still shaping the counter melodies appropriately.A brief return to the fanfare style occurs in mm. 33–35 before melding back into the chorale style.In regards to dynamics, performers should be reminded that within any single dynamic exists a range of expressive shades. No two notes should be played at the same volume, ensuring direction in even the simplest of phrases.Generally speaking, the fortissimo dynamic should be approached thoughtfully, with the bulk of the sound coming from the lowest voices, and the least from the highest voices.