(E-flat Edition). By Various. By Various. For Eb Instruments. Fake Book. Softcover. 464 pages. Published by Hal Leonard

Band Bass Clarinet, Bass Drum, Bass Trombone, Bassoon, Bells, Clarinet 1, Clarinet 2, Crash Cymbals, Euphonium, Euphonium T.C., Flute 1, Flute 2, Horn, Mallet Percussion, Oboe, Percussion 1, Percussion 2, Snare Drum, Timpani, Trombone, Trumpet 1 and more. - Grade 1

SKU: CF.BPS137F

Composed by Michael Boo. Sws. Bps. Full score. 16 pages. Duration 2:20. Carl Fischer Music #BPS137F. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.BPS137F).

ISBN 9781491158494. UPC: 680160917099. 9 x 12 inches.

Fanfare and Jubilation is a Grade 1 work that is playable by any beginning band with any instrumentation due to extensive doubling. The mood is regal and optimistic and is non-programmatic, conveying no picturesque image or storyline. It is appropriate for any occasion. Accents are to be emphasized more than non-accented notes, but are not to be hammered hard. Stress that accented notes are to be played with the same good tone as the other notes and that pitches should not suffer from the additional emphasis. Think of the accents as more of an additional emphasis from the air column and not the tongue. Percussion accents are to played with more emphasis than non-accented notes, but shouldnat be perceived as being much louder. Timpani is only two pitches and is optional. The piece will not suffer at all if you donat have access to Timpani or a timpanist. Bells cover a wide rangea|the lower octave sections should not be played louder just because theyare low pitched, as those notes will still be appropriately heard while supporting the melody. Do not use brass mallets. Balter 10 Phenolic mallets or equivalent (such as clear Balter Lexan or white Medium Hard Poly models) are most appropriate. Think of the m. 10 accented quarter notes tied to the half notes (and similar later examples) as being akin to Horn rips in a Hollywood movie. They are to be emphasized slightly but should not be blaring. Even though they are the only things happening on counts 2 and 3, care must be given that the young players donat get carried away and give them more emphasis than is musically desired. At m. 21, be careful that the bass line isnat plodding or over-emphasized due to the accents. Those players should be aware of the sudden drop in volume and lack of accents at m. 25. Attention to sudden dynamic shifts will add interest to the piece and present a more musical performance. Throughout this entire section, try to get all winds to sustain a single breath through four bars until the breath marks. If they are unable to do so, please explain the concept of staggered breathing between members of their section. There may be a tendency among the players to blast out m. 57 to the end. Notes should have more power than the section from mm. 21-56, but are still to be approached musically. Explaining such concepts during their early musical development will go far in helping them develop good traits that will pay off dividends in the future.
Fanfare and Jubilation is a Grade 1 work that is playable by any beginning band with any instrumentation due to extensive doubling. The mood is regal and optimistic and is non-programmatic, conveying no picturesque image or storyline. It is appropriate for any occasion. Accents are to be emphasized more than non-accented notes, but are not to be hammered hard. Stress that accented notes are to be played with the same good tone as the other notes and that pitches should not suffer from the additional emphasis. Think of the accents as more of an additional emphasis from the air column and not the tongue. Percussion accents are to played with more emphasis than non-accented notes, but shouldn't be perceived as being much louder. Timpani is only two pitches and is optional. The piece will not suffer at all if you don't have access to Timpani or a timpanist. Bells cover a wide range...the lower octave sections should not be played louder just because they're low pitched, as those notes will still be appropriately heard while supporting the melody. Do not use brass mallets. Balter 10 Phenolic mallets or equivalent (such as clear Balter Lexan or white Medium Hard Poly models) are most appropriate. Think of the m. 10 accented quarter notes tied to the half notes (and similar later examples) as being akin to Horn rips in a Hollywood movie. They are to be emphasized slightly but should not be blaring. Even though they are the only things happening on counts 2 and 3, care must be given that the young players don't get carried away and give them more emphasis than is musically desired. At m. 21, be careful that the bass line isn't plodding or over-emphasized due to the accents. Those players should be aware of the sudden drop in volume and lack of accents at m. 25. Attention to sudden dynamic shifts will add interest to the piece and present a more musical performance. Throughout this entire section, try to get all winds to sustain a single breath through four bars until the breath marks. If they are unable to do so, please explain the concept of staggered breathing between members of their section. There may be a tendency among the players to blast out m. 57 to the end. Notes should have more power than the section from mm. 21-56, but are still to be approached musically. Explaining such concepts during their early musical development will go far in helping them develop good traits that will pay off dividends in the future.
Fanfare and Jubilation is a Grade 1 work that is playable by any beginning band with any instrumentation due to extensive doubling. The mood is regal and optimistic and is non-programmatic, conveying no picturesque image or storyline. It is appropriate for any occasion.Accents are to be emphasized more than non-accented notes, but are not to be hammered hard. Stress that accented notes are to be played with the same good tone as the other notes and that pitches should not suffer from the additional emphasis. Think of the accents as more of an additional emphasis from the air column and not the tongue.Percussion accents are to played with more emphasis than non-accented notes, but shouldn’t be perceived as being much louder. Timpani is only two pitches and is optional. The piece will not suffer at all if you don’t have access to Timpani or a timpanist. Bells cover a wide range…the lower octave sections should not be played louder just because they’re low pitched, as those notes will still be appropriately heard while supporting the melody. Do not use brass mallets. Balter 10 Phenolic mallets or equivalent (such as clear Balter Lexan or white Medium Hard Poly models) are most appropriate.Think of the m. 10 accented quarter notes tied to the half notes (and similar later examples) as being akin to Horn rips in a Hollywood movie. They are to be emphasized slightly but should not be blaring. Even though they are the only things happening on counts 2 and 3, care must be given that the young players don’t get carried away and give them more emphasis than is musically desired.At m. 21, be careful that the bass line isn’t plodding or over-emphasized due to the accents. Those players should be aware of the sudden drop in volume and lack of accents at m. 25. Attention to sudden dynamic shifts will add interest to the piece and present a more musical performance. Throughout this entire section, try to get all winds to sustain a single breath through four bars until the breath marks. If they are unable to do so, please explain the concept of staggered breathing between members of their section.There may be a tendency among the players to blast out m. 57 to the end. Notes should have more power than the section from mm. 21-56, but are still to be approached musically. Explaining such concepts during their early musical development will go far in helping them develop good traits that will pay off dividends in the future.

Band Bass Clarinet, Bass Drum, Bassoon, Bells, Clarinet, Euphonium, Euphonium T.C., Flute, Horn, Mallet Percussion 1, Mallet Percussion 2, Oboe, Percussion 1, Percussion 2, Snare Drum, Suspended Cymbal, Tambourine, Triangle, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba and more. - Grade 1

SKU: CF.BPS147

Composed by Travis Weller. Set of Score and Parts. Carl Fischer Music #BPS147. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.BPS147).

ISBN 9781491163436. UPC: 680160922222.

What does the life of a lone warrior look like? What stories does he or she have to tell? This piece for beginning band depicts a lone warrior beginning a journey across an ancient land. This solitary warrior is joined by others on the way, and together they defend those who cannot defend themselves. Each warrior might have a different story and experience, and I would encourage young musicians to create their own through sharing verbally, writing a short story, or even creating a work of art (a picture depicting their warrior or creating a mask their warrior wears might aid in the telling of their warrior’s story).The Warrior’s Path is about one minute and twenty seconds in length, and the technical range (first six notes of the Bb concert scale) should be very comfortable for a student in their second semester of instrumental music instruction. There are some articulations indicated, but overall musicians should strive for a unified even articulation. Throughout the work, the snares should be turned off or directors can choose to substitute with a low concert tom. The piece can be performed with as few as five winds (e.g. Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Trumpet and Trombone) and just four percussion (suggested Bells, Snare, Cymbal and Tambourine).The piece began as a flexible chamber piece during the summer of 2020 but has been reorchestrated for use by a full band in a traditional setting. It is my hope the piece provides a meaningful opportunity for students to tell a story through music and other creative outlets. The piece is dedicated to elementary band directors who have fought for their students and their programs each and every day. In their own way, they have been warriors of a different kind using a baton as their sword and their passion for music education and their students as a shield. Thank you in advance for your support of this music, and I wish you and your ensemble well as you take The Warrior’s Path.

By Various Composers. Fake Book (Includes melody line and chords). Size 8.5x11 inches. 416 pages. Published by Hal Leonard.

Book with Play-Along Tracks. Composed by Various. Real Book Play-Along. Softcover Audio Online. 440 pages. Published by Hal Leonard

Bass Clef Edition. By Various. Fake Book (Includes melody line and chords). Size 9x11 inches. Published by Hal Leonard.

Eb Instruments. By Various. Fake Book (Includes melody line and chords). Size 9x11 inches. Published by Hal Leonard.

Band Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Clarinet, Contra Bassoon, Contrabass, English Horn, Euphonium, Flute, Horn, Oboe, Orc, Piano, Piccolo, Soprano Saxophone, Tenor, Tenor Saxophone, Timpani, Trumpet, Tuba, Tubular Bells, Vibraphone

SKU: PR.465000020

Composed by Dan Welcher. Premiered on April 21, 2002 by the Texas Tech University Symphonic Wind Ensemble, John Cody Birdwell, Conductor. Classical. Full score. With Standard notation. Composed 2001. Duration 15 minutes. Theodore Presser Company #465-00002. Published by Theodore Presser Company (PR.465000020).

ISBN 9781598060102. UPC: 680160493869. Key: C major.

Welcher has created a wholly-Celtic masterpiece in Minstrels of the Kells. Citing a good number of Irish classics, he covers the duality of the music - the soul-searing angst and mournfulness, and the toe-tapping reels and jigs that we know and love. This is a marvelous concert piece that was commissioned by the Big Twelve Band Directors Association. (An interesting option- Welcher provides a spot in the second movement for the addition of a pub band (Irish folk band) and a three-minute vamp).

Band concert band - Grade 1

SKU: CF.BPS127

Composed by Peter Sciaino. Folio. Bps. Set of Score and Parts. 8+2+8+2+5+2+2+8+3+6+2+3+1+1+2+2+12 pages. Duration 2 minutes, 39 seconds. Carl Fischer Music #BPS127. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.BPS127).

ISBN 9781491156209. UPC: 680160914746. 9 x 12 inches.

Program Notes Elephant is, of course, inspired by the incredible mammals of the same name. Their column-like legs, long trunks, and massive presence will never cease to amaze; however, it's their trumpeting that makes them stand out as the instrumentalists of the animal kingdom! In this selection, an elephant's slow gate and general demeanor are represented by a methodical tempo and lumbering texture. Woodwinds will enjoy the opportunity to perform grace notes while Elephant also offers exposure to flams for young percussionists.   At m. 33 the trumpets and horns recreate an elephant call after slipping brown paper bags, or lunch-bag mutes, over their bells (in their bells for horn players). For the trumpet players, the mutes can be enhanced with an additional balled-up piece of paper placed at the bottom of the bag prior to slipping it over the bell. Horns should ball up the bag itself and experiment with placement to create the most realistic tones without stopping the instrument. While specific pitches are noted, making the best elephant sounds should prioritized. Young students always look forward to experimenting with mutes, and this selection offers an inexpensive and creative way to do so at a young age. Note to the Conductor This piece can be used to introduce or reinforce the finer points of staccato playing. While many students know to play these notes short in length, they may need reminding that they should also be played lightly. This also may allow for opportunities in emphasizing contrasting articulation styles that are in this piece. Younger students will likely need a reasonable amount of practice in successfully using the lunch-bag mutes. Allowing additional rehearsal time for this is recommended.
Program Notes Elephant is, of course, inspired by the incredible mammals of the same name. Their column-like legs, long trunks, and massive presence will never cease to amaze; however, it's their trumpeting that makes them stand out as the instrumentalists of the animal kingdom! In this selection, an elephant's slow gait and general demeanor are represented by a methodical tempo and lumbering texture. Woodwinds will enjoy the opportunity to perform grace notes while Elephant also offers exposure to flams for young percussionists.   At m. 33 the trumpets and horns recreate an elephant call after slipping brown paper bags, or lunch-bag mutes, over their bells (in their bells for horn players). For the trumpet players, the mutes can be enhanced with an additional balled-up piece of paper placed at the bottom of the bag prior to slipping it over the bell. Horns should ball up the bag itself and experiment with placement to create the most realistic tones without stopping the instrument. While specific pitches are noted, making the best elephant sounds should prioritized. Young students always look forward to experimenting with mutes, and this selection offers an inexpensive and creative way to do so at a young age. Note to the Conductor This piece can be used to introduce or reinforce the finer points of staccato playing. While many students know to play these notes short in length, they may need reminding that they should also be played lightly. This also may allow for opportunities in emphasizing contrasting articulation styles that are in this piece. Younger students will likely need a reasonable amount of practice in successfully using the lunch-bag mutes. Allowing additional rehearsal time for this is recommended.
Program NotesElephant is, of course, inspired by the incredible mammals of the same name. Their column-like legs, long trunks, and massive presence will never cease to amaze; however, it’s their trumpeting that makes them stand out as the instrumentalists of the animal kingdom! In this selection, an elephant’s slow gait and general demeanor are represented by a methodical tempo and lumbering texture. Woodwinds will enjoy the opportunity to perform grace notes while Elephant also offers exposure to flams for young percussionists. At m. 33 the trumpets and horns recreate an elephant call after slipping brown paper bags, or “lunch-bag mutes,” over their bells (in their bells for horn players). For the trumpet players, the mutes can be enhanced with an additional balled-up piece of paper placed at the bottom of the bag prior to slipping it over the bell. Horns should ball up the bag itself and experiment with placement to create the most realistic tones without stopping the instrument. While specific pitches are noted, making the best elephant sounds should prioritized. Young students always look forward to experimenting with mutes, and this selection offers an inexpensive and creative way to do so at a young age.Note to the ConductorThis piece can be used to introduce or reinforce the finer points of staccato playing. While many students know to play these notes short in length, they may need reminding that they should also be played lightly. This also may allow for opportunities in emphasizing contrasting articulation styles that are in this piece.Younger students will likely need a reasonable amount of practice in successfully using the “lunch-bag mutes.” Allowing additional rehearsal time for this is recommended.

Band Bagpipes, Bass Clarinet, Bass Drum, Bassoon, Bells, Clarinet 1, Clarinet 2, Clarinet 3, Crash Cymbals, Double Bass, Euphonium, Euphonium T.C., Flute 1, Flute 2, Horn 1, Horn 2, Mallet Percussion, Mark Tree, Oboe, Percussion 1, Percussion 2 and more. - Grade 3.5

SKU: CF.CPS225

Composed by Larry Clark. Concert Band (CPS). Set of Score and Parts. With Standard notation. 12+12+6+12+24+24+6+4+6+6+6+6+8+8+8+4+4+6+6+6+8+2+1+6+2+4+10+32+4 pages. Duration 6 minutes, 9 seconds. Carl Fischer Music #CPS225. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.CPS225).

ISBN 9781491152515. UPC: 680160910014.

Tartan Tapestries is an original piece that sets out to emulate Scottish folk music. Composer Larry Clark has created a concert overture in triple meter to capture the essence of music from Scotland. After a lilting first section,  lush and beautiful moments weave a tapestry of sounds with the lyrical, middle section of the piece. There is an optional part for bagpipes, and an optional ending should you chose to use this instrument as part of the piece. Alert your contest music committee about this strong new piece for advancing groups.
Tartan Tapestries was commissioned by Friends of the Arts for the Saint Andrew's School Band in Boca Raton, Florida. The band program at Saint Andrew’s School is under the direction of Andrea Wolgin. The premiere took place on November 29, 2017.When I was asked by their conductor Ms. Wolgin to write a piece for the Saint Andrew’s School, I asked her what kind of involvement she wanted the students to have in the process. We discussed several options for having the students involved in the process of creating with the type of piece they wanted.  We set up a “Skype” meeting with members of the band to discuss the piece. During this discussion, the consensus of the students was that they wanted a piece depicting the Scottish influence to the school. They also wanted a piece that would challenge all sections of the band and to include bagpipes if possible. I asked that the students be involved in helping to name the piece once it was completed, for which they agreed and were very helpful. Armed with this information, I set out to compose a piece for them, and Tartan Tapestries is the result.The piece begins with a fanfare gesture based upon rhythms and harmonies that appear throughout the piece. I chose the lilting triple feel to the piece, to bring about the Scottish flavor. I wanted the fanfare to be bardic sounding, to depict the strength of the Scottish people and for the piece to have a dynamic opening. The fanfare contains material that alludes to the main theme and with a bit of dissonance and tension that is resolved in the main body of the piece.The main theme is a lilting original melody, but one that I hope with have the essence of Scottish folk songs. The main idea is followed by a more modal and dark sounding secondary theme, first stated in the horns. This material is later used in the development section of the piece. The main theme returns several times, with different and varied orchestrations and harmonic treatments. This is followed by a short transition leading to the more lyrical and slower second section of the piece. A transparent presentation of the lyrical theme, which is based on aspects of the main theme, is presented first by a solo flute. This section is a nod to famous composer Malcom Arnold’s wonderful works for orchestra in its style and orchestration. After a transition or bridge section with a solo euphonium, the piece builds to a dramatic climax of the lyrical theme by the full band. This subsides to a return of the solo flute to end this second section of the piece, followed by a transition back the main theme.The solo bagpipes play a central role in the return of the main theme and take center stage after being heard in the distance earlier in the work. The piece brings back a shortened version of the darker secondary theme, followed by a hint of the fanfare material that builds to one last statement of the main theme by the full band, before leading to a dramatic coda to complete the work.It has been my pleasure to have been given the opportunity to compose this piece for the Saint Andrew’s School Band! I thank Andrea Wolgin for making it happen, and I hope that you enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed bringing the piece to life.–Larry ClarkLakeland, Florida 2017.

Horn. Composed by Various. Instrumental Play-Along. Softcover Audio Online. 16 pages. Published by Hal Leonard

Band Bass Clarinet, Bass Drum, Bassoon, Bells, Chimes, Clarinet 1, Clarinet 2, Clarinet 3, Crash Cymbals, Euphonium, Euphonium T.C., Flute 1, Flute 2, Horn, Mallet Percussion, Oboe, Percussion 1, Percussion 2, Percussion 3, Snare Drum and more. - Grade 3

SKU: CF.CPS234F

Composed by Travis Weller. Sws. Cps. Full score. 32 pages. Duration 3 minutes, 10 seconds. Carl Fischer Music #CPS234F. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.CPS234F).

ISBN 9781491156353. UPC: 680160914890. 9 x 12 inches.

Mercury - the Roman god of financial gain, commerce, travelers, boundaries, luck, trickery, merchants, and thieves. A popular deity in Roman culture, he was instantly recognized by his unique winged shoes (talaria) and hat (petasos). With its close proximity to the sun and faster orbit than all other planets, the Romans named this small celestial body after the swift-winged messenger of their culture. It is not surprising that in Holst's major orchestral suite The Planets that Mercury utilizes such light and swift themes. There is some duality to the title of the work. Part of it involves my impression of what a playful chase of the winged messenger sounds like. The other part is the opening motif chasing two themes of Holst around the rest of the work. It was only after developing the first few ideas that I recognized some of the commonalities with some of those same themes from Holst's orchestral work. There are several quotations from that famous piece by Holst (notably as both are stated successively at mm. 13-20). The idea of someone having to chase the Winged Messenger struck me as a unique title around which to craft a work. One of my core beliefs about music is that it can be imbued with meaning by a composer, and as the sonic story unfolds an ensemble, director, and audience members can draw out their own meaning from the experience. Who exactly is chasing Mercury? I leave that up to the wonderfully creative minds of the young ladies and gentlemen who have the opportunity to bring this work to life. The opportunity to compose music and allow student musicians to give this piece new life and draw out different meanings is a humbling experience. Rehearsal Notes and Suggestions As stated earlier, the opening motif (a range of a seventh) comes back frequently in the work in a variety of settings and textures. Throughout the work, it is important for students to recognize the two themes from Holst when they are present in the sound canvas. If the solos (clarinet and alto saxophone) are utilized, the supporting parts around and underneath those lines must be sensitive and play in such a way to properly balance those parts. There are number of muted sections for the trumpet section, and I would advocate for all trumpets acquiring the same mute to contribute to unity in timbre. The bold fanfare sections (the first occurs at m. 37) must be presented with a unified articulation style. As the texture intensifies prior to m. 169, it is crucial for the ensemble to play within themselves and exercise musical courtesy to allow all voices to be heard as they arrive at m. 181. My thanks in advance for your support of this music, and I wish you well as you and your ensemble begin Chasing Mercury!.
Mercury – the Roman god of financial gain, commerce, travelers, boundaries, luck, trickery, merchants, and thieves. A popular deity in Roman culture, he was instantly recognized by his unique winged shoes (talaria) and hat (petasos). With its close proximity to the sun and faster orbit than all other planets, the Romans named this small celestial body after the swift-winged messenger of their culture. It is not surprising that in Holst’s major orchestral suite The Planets that Mercury utilizes such light and swift themes.There is some duality to the title of the work. Part of it involves my impression of what a playful chase of the winged messenger sounds like. The other part is the opening motif chasing two themes of Holst around the rest of the work. It was only after developing the first few ideas that I recognized some of the commonalities with some of those same themes from Holst’s orchestral work. There are several quotations from that famous piece by Holst (notably as both are stated successively at mm. 13–20). The idea of someone having to chase the Winged Messenger struck me as a unique title around which to craft a work.One of my core beliefs about music is that it can be imbued with meaning by a composer, and as the sonic story unfolds an ensemble, director, and audience members can draw out their own meaning from the experience. Who exactly is chasing Mercury? I leave that up to the wonderfully creative minds of the young ladies and gentlemen who have the opportunity to bring this work to life. The opportunity to compose music and allow student musicians to give this piece new life and draw out different meanings is a humbling experience.Rehearsal Notes and SuggestionsAs stated earlier, the opening motif (a range of a seventh) comes back frequently in the work in a variety of settings and textures. Throughout the work, it is important for students to recognize the two themes from Holst when they are present in the sound canvas. If the solos (clarinet and alto saxophone) are utilized, the supporting parts around and underneath those lines must be sensitive and play in such a way to properly balance those parts. There are number of muted sections for the trumpet section, and I would advocate for all trumpets acquiring the same mute to contribute to unity in timbre. The bold fanfare sections (the first occurs at m. 37) must be presented with a unified articulation style. As the texture intensifies prior to m. 169, it is crucial for the ensemble to play within themselves and exercise musical courtesy to allow all voices to be heard as they arrive at m. 181. My thanks in advance for your support of this music, and I wish you well as you and your ensemble begin Chasing Mercury!

Band Bass Clarinet, Bass Drum, Bassoon, Bells, Chimes, Clarinet, Euphonium, Euphonium T.C., Flute, Horn, Mallet Percussion, Oboe, Percussion 1, Percussion 2, Snare Drum, Spoons, Timpani, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Washboard, Whistle, alto Saxophone and more. - Grade 2

SKU: CF.YPS231F

Composed by Travis Weller. Sws. Yps. Full score. 16 pages. Duration 2 minutes, 14 seconds. Carl Fischer Music #YPS231F. Published by Carl Fischer Music (CF.YPS231F).

ISBN 9781491157824. UPC: 680160916429. 9 x 12 inches.

The life of railroad worker in the early days of expansion was lonely, and the need for music to bolster spirits was of great importance. The character singing 900 Miles is looking forward to being reunited with his family after being separated from them for considerable time. The Wayfaring Stranger is a prominent American folk and gospel song that reflects upon the journey through life. The character in that song contemplates better times with their family in the afterlife. Both of these songs speak to the idea of searching for something beyond the current situation in which that person finds themselves. The programmatic qualities of the work are essentially tied to the main folk songa900 Milesaand they evoke the idea of where the song found its origins. Beyond that, both songs connect each of us to the sense of belonging and family that are the human experience. While the music paints a picture of someone who is alone, that is not a feeling I want for any young student in our schools today. Band is one of the few places where students can discover that sense of belonging and find a surrogate family. While band is a family that might not always get along, they can reach a shared goal through diligent work, caring and encouragement. It was a pleasure completing Lonely Travelers for longtime friend, superb musician, excellent educator and dedicated leader in music education Dennis Emert. His students debuted the work at the 2020 PMEA State Conference. I am deeply appreciative of Dennis and the friendship, encouragement and perspective he shared with me over the years teaching in the same region. The opening flute, clarinet and alto saxophone part can be performed by the entire section or as a solo at the discretion of the director. The washboard and spoon part can be doubled as players allow. I would suggest bringing these students to the front of the stage to get the sound of both instruments to the audience. As the piece develops and Wayfaring Stranger is layered with 900 Miles, please remind your ensemble to play so they can hear each other, not so they are individually heard. I thank you and your ensemble in advance as you begin this journey together in search of Lonely Travelers.
The life of railroad worker in the early days of expansion was lonely, and the need for music to bolster spirits was of great importance. The character singing 900 Miles is looking forward to being reunited with his family after being separated from them for considerable time. The Wayfaring Stranger is a prominent American folk and gospel song that reflects upon the journey through life. The character in that song contemplates better times with their family in the afterlife. Both of these songs speak to the idea of searching for something beyond the current situation in which that person finds themselves. The programmatic qualities of the work are essentially tied to the main folk song--900 Miles--and they evoke the idea of where the song found its origins. Beyond that, both songs connect each of us to the sense of belonging and family that are the human experience. While the music paints a picture of someone who is alone, that is not a feeling I want for any young student in our schools today. Band is one of the few places where students can discover that sense of belonging and find a surrogate family. While band is a family that might not always get along, they can reach a shared goal through diligent work, caring and encouragement. It was a pleasure completing Lonely Travelers for longtime friend, superb musician, excellent educator and dedicated leader in music education Dennis Emert. His students debuted the work at the 2020 PMEA State Conference. I am deeply appreciative of Dennis and the friendship, encouragement and perspective he shared with me over the years teaching in the same region. The opening flute, clarinet and alto saxophone part can be performed by the entire section or as a solo at the discretion of the director. The washboard and spoon part can be doubled as players allow. I would suggest bringing these students to the front of the stage to get the sound of both instruments to the audience. As the piece develops and Wayfaring Stranger is layered with 900 Miles, please remind your ensemble to play so they can hear each other, not so they are individually heard. I thank you and your ensemble in advance as you begin this journey together in search of Lonely Travelers.
The life of railroad worker in the early days of expansion was lonely, and the need for music to bolster spirits was of great importance. The character singing 900 Miles is looking forward to being reunited with his family after being separated from them for considerable time. The Wayfaring Stranger is a prominent American folk and gospel song that reflects upon the journey through life. The character in that song contemplates better times with their family in the afterlife. Both of these songs speak to the idea of searching for something beyond the current situation in which that person finds themselves. The programmatic qualities of the work are essentially tied to the main folk song—900 Miles—and they evoke the idea of where the song found its origins. Beyond that, both songs connect each of us to the sense of belonging and family that are the human experience.While the music paints a picture of someone who is alone, that is not a feeling I want for any young student in our schools today. Band is one of the few places where students can discover that sense of belonging and find a surrogate family. While band is a family that might not always get along, they can reach a shared goal through diligent work, caring and encouragement. It was a pleasure completing Lonely Travelers for longtime friend, superb musician, excellent educator and dedicated leader in music education Dennis Emert. His students debuted the work at the 2020 PMEA State Conference. I am deeply appreciative of Dennis and the friendship, encouragement and perspective he shared with me over the years teaching in the same region.The opening flute, clarinet and alto saxophone part can be performed by the entire section or as a solo at the discretion of the director. The washboard and spoon part can be doubled as players allow. I would suggest bringing these students to the front of the stage to get the sound of both instruments to the audience. As the piece develops and Wayfaring Stranger is layered with 900 Miles, please remind your ensemble to play so they can hear each other, not so they are individually heard. I thank you and your ensemble in advance as you begin this journey together in search of Lonely Travelers.