SKU: FG.55011-775-4

ISBN 9790550117754.

Alex Freeman found initial inspiration for his string quartet (2015) in a series of photographs a geologist friend showed him of en échelon veins in rock formations. The open strings punctuated with pizzicato unisons that begin the single-movement work call to mind something crystalline and shimmering, which is immediately infused with tumbling lyrical lines in something of a rapid caccia technique throughout. The middle of the work becomes more suspended in slower material loosely based on a technique of prolation canon, comprises layers of free, expressive, lyrical, and even elegiac music moving at different speeds. As the work concludes, the materials converge in a rhythmically pulsating stasis and an almost chorale-like statement.

Duration: c. 13'

This product includes the score and the parts (A4 sized).


American-Finnish composer Alex Freeman (b.1972) has established himself among the foremost composers of choral music in Finland. A dedicated citizen of his musical community, a teacher, and a choral singer himself, he composes music that reflects an appreciation for a wide range of aesthetics and a passion for communicating with listeners and performers. In his choral works, in particular, we find music that aims to be sonorous, melodic, and resonant, but is always crafted to carefully avoid the cliches that can burden conventional tonality.

His instrumental works run the gamut: a cantata with orchestra based on poetry of Whitman; a significant body of solo piano works that reveal deep roots in everything from austere absolute music to soaring elegaic rhetoric (see Albany Records, Inner Voice); his chamber work Blueshift (Navona Records), which is a kind of paean to Reich and Adams in miniature; open-ended modular works, like various iterations of his Slow All Clocks for electronic media, solo clarinet, and mixed choirs of kanteles; and, recently, some new directions in microtonal music.

SKU: CF.YPS208F

ISBN 9781491152966. UPC: 680160910465.

A stunning and heart-wrenching composition based on the Jewish folk son Shlof, Mayn Kind. You can hear the emotional content pour out of this piece written in memory of an outstanding orchestra director. The piece beginnings with original material to set the tone, followed by a clarinet solo on the song. It then develops through a variety of different harmonic presentation before building to a nice key change and climatic moment. The piece ends as it began, but with a more hopeful tone. An amazing piece.
Sleep, My Child was commissioned by the Madison Middle School Band and Orchestra in Tampa, Florida, and is dedicated to the memory of their Director of Orchestras Kevin Frye. Director of Bands Chris Shultz championed the commissioning of this piece to honor Kevin after he passed away in December 2016. Mr. Frye was a beloved member of the staff at Madison Middle as well as the music community of Tampa and the state of Florida. I was a personal friend of Kevin’s. We were in several musical groups together when we were young that were formative to both of our musical careers. I also guest conducted his Madison Middle School Orchestra several times over the past four years. His musicianship, teaching skills and love for his students were exemplary.When taking on the challenge of writing a piece to honor Kevin’s legacy, Mr. Shultz and I decided to try and include several important aspects of Kevin’s life into the piece. Kevin was proudly Jewish, a fantastic trumpet player and loved Jazz. With that in mind, and after a lot of research, a Jewish folk song Shlof, Mayn Kind was selected as the basis for the piece, not to be religious, but to honor his faith and heritage. Plus it is a beautiful song, and I felt the title reflected the sentiment I was looking to express, which is of someone taking rest after a long battle with illness. Thus, a lullaby seemed appropriate.I also wanted to incorporate Jazz into the piece, but in a concert setting, so you will hear as the piece develops, the harmonies of the folk song expand into ones found more commonly in Jazz compositions. Not in a far out way, but in a subtle way to again honor this part of his life. For example the climactic moment of the piece at the fermata in m. 57 is a Dbmaj9#11 chord. It appropriately give the piece the angst that I was looking for at this moment in the piece, while honoring the importance of Jazz in Kevin’s musical life.The piece was also conceived to include both the Madison band and orchestra in the performance at the premiere. I wanted the pieces to work separately by the band and separately by the orchestra, but I also wanted them to be able to play the piece together to honor Kevin.The piece begins with original material designed to set the mood of the piece with a tempo/style marking of pensive, but also as material that I used as connective musical tissue between statements of the folk song.  After this introduction, the folk song is presented by a solo violin (or clarinet) with orchestral accompaniment in a simple straight forward presentation of the song. This is followed by a woodwind section statement of the folk song accompanied by muted trumpets. During this presentation the harmony starts to expand with more color notes in the chords. The low brass are added half way through this statement to add depth and lushness.The introductory material returns, but with some angry hits in the lower voices. This leads to a full ensemble state of new material that is used to transition to the climax of the piece, and to build tension. After the build, the piece modulates to a shortened statement of the folk song with more advanced harmonies and an active counter line in the violas, horns, saxes and first clarinets to further build the tension.  This tension is released at the fermata in m. 57, as mentioned above. After a thoughtful pause, the piece concludes with a completion of the folk song again with a solo violin (or clarinet) followed by a return of the introductory material to tie the piece together. The piece ends hopeful, with a solo trumpet (Kevin’s instrument) that is dissonant at first, but then resolves as if to say - everything will be OK! It has been my distinct honor to have been asked to write this piece in Kevin’s memory! I hope that in some small way the piece helps to bring comfort to his family, students, colleagues and to all those that knew him!–Larry ClarkLakeland, FL  2017.

SKU: BA.BA06764

ISBN 9790006482498. 27.1 x 21.2 cm inches. Text: Ingeborg / Burkart, Erika Bachmann.

World Premiere 02/03/1979, Zurich.

SKU: CF.CPS245

ISBN 9781491158128. UPC: 680160916726. 9 x 12 inches.

ABOUT THE MUSIC Future of Tomorrow (Concert March) was commissioned by the Arts Education Branch, Ministry of Education as the set piece for the Singapore Youth Festival 2016 Arts Presentation for Concert and Brass Bands (Primary Level). This march uses brief excerpts from the well-known Malay folk songs Katak Lompat and Rasa Sayang. Our youths are indeed our future of tomorrow. This joyful-themed march aims to bring out the best in each of your young players. I hope that students, band directors and audiences will enjoy preparing, performing and listening to this work. EDUCATIONAL NOTES Key: Eb Major SECTION BARS EVENT / SCORING / SUGGESTIONS Introduction 1-4 Opens in Eb major with dotted rhythm motif. 1st Strain 5-20 Take note of melodic phrasing above the (light) oom-pah ostinato; melody repeats at m. 13 with the addition of countermelody in the inner lines; although written at mf dynamic, this anew ideaa needs to be heard clearly for contrast with the previous statement. 2nd Strain 21-36 C minor (relative minor); excerpt from Katak Lompat; melody in the lower brass/wind from m. 21 with a contrasting attitude/style from 1st strain; back to a more lyrical treatment from m. 29. Trio 37-56 Stays unmodulated in the same key; opens with a percussion solo feature before the start of the softer Trio theme; keep this section controlled and be sensitive to the balance; the metallic timbre of the muted trumpet/cornet needs to be heard clearly (might suggest to bring the dynamic level up to mf when muted); if cued-notes are played, make sure they are played throughout the melodic phrase as written to avoid awkward leaps. Break Strain 57-62 Excerpt from Rasa Sayang with some play in tonality and instrumental dialogue; quasi grandioso-style before the final strain. Final Strain 63-82 Back to Eb major with the reprise of the Trio theme; festive-like style with fuller orchestration and new countermelodies; dotted rhythm motif from the introduction concludes the march in a codetta-like section from m. 79. NOTE TO THE CONDUCTOR This march has been carefully written with reasonable technicalities and range in mind for younger players. Generally, optional cued notes in parenthesis are given for less experienced players who have yet to develop their range on the instrument. However, they should never be taken as an easy alternative for all players in the section; otherwise, this may result in a less than ideal flow of the musical lines. Marches are good tools to train tempo consistency, articulation and rhythmic precision as well as musical phrasing. I hope that there will be great learning opportunities for your students as they learn this piece. This march is separately orchestrated for both wind and brass bands to maximize the instrumental colors within each ensemble. The parts are therefore not exchangeable between the wind band and brass band sets. I wish you the best in the performance of this work. - Benjamin Yeo.
ABOUT THE MUSIC Future of Tomorrow (Concert March) was commissioned by the Arts Education Branch, Ministry of Education as the set piece for the Singapore Youth Festival 2016 Arts Presentation for Concert and Brass Bands (Primary Level). This march uses brief excerpts from the well-known Malay folk songs Katak Lompat and Rasa Sayang. Our youths are indeed our future of tomorrow. This joyful-themed march aims to bring out the best in each of your young players. I hope that students, band directors and audiences will enjoy preparing, performing and listening to this work. EDUCATIONAL NOTES Key: Eb Major SECTION BARS EVENT / SCORING / SUGGESTIONS Introduction 1-4 Opens in Eb major with dotted rhythm motif. 1st Strain 5-20 Take note of melodic phrasing above the (light) oom-pah ostinato; melody repeats at m. 13 with the addition of countermelody in the inner lines; although written at mf dynamic, this 'new idea' needs to be heard clearly for contrast with the previous statement. 2nd Strain 21-36 C minor (relative minor); excerpt from Katak Lompat; melody in the lower brass/wind from m. 21 with a contrasting attitude/style from 1st strain; back to a more lyrical treatment from m. 29. Trio 37-56 Stays unmodulated in the same key; opens with a percussion solo feature before the start of the softer Trio theme; keep this section controlled and be sensitive to the balance; the metallic timbre of the muted trumpet/cornet needs to be heard clearly (might suggest to bring the dynamic level up to mf when muted); if cued-notes are played, make sure they are played throughout the melodic phrase as written to avoid awkward leaps. Break Strain 57-62 Excerpt from Rasa Sayang with some play in tonality and instrumental dialogue; quasi grandioso-style before the final strain. Final Strain 63-82 Back to Eb major with the reprise of the Trio theme; festive-like style with fuller orchestration and new countermelodies; dotted rhythm motif from the introduction concludes the march in a codetta-like section from m. 79. NOTE TO THE CONDUCTOR This march has been carefully written with reasonable technicalities and range in mind for younger players. Generally, optional cued notes in parenthesis are given for less experienced players who have yet to develop their range on the instrument. However, they should never be taken as an easy alternative for all players in the section; otherwise, this may result in a less than ideal flow of the musical lines. Marches are good tools to train tempo consistency, articulation and rhythmic precision as well as musical phrasing. I hope that there will be great learning opportunities for your students as they learn this piece. This march is separately orchestrated for both wind and brass bands to maximize the instrumental colors within each ensemble. The parts are therefore not exchangeable between the wind band and brass band sets. I wish you the best in the performance of this work. - Benjamin Yeo.
ABOUT THE MUSICFuture of Tomorrow (Concert March) was commissioned by the Arts Education Branch, Ministry of Education as the set piece for the Singapore Youth Festival 2016 Arts Presentation for Concert and Brass Bands (Primary Level). This march uses brief excerpts from the well-known Malay folk songs Katak Lompat and Rasa Sayang.Our youths are indeed our future of tomorrow. This joyful-themed march aims to bring out the best in each of your young players. I hope that students, band directors and audiences will enjoy preparing, performing and listening to this work.EDUCATIONAL NOTESKey: Eb MajorSECTIONBARSEVENT / SCORING / SUGGESTIONSIntroduction1-4Opens in Eb major with dotted rhythm motif.1st Strain5-20Take note of melodic phrasing above the (light) oom-pah ostinato;melody repeats at m. 13 with the addition of countermelody in the inner lines; although written at mf dynamic, this ‘new idea’ needs to be heard clearly for contrast with the previous statement.2nd Strain21-36C minor (relative minor); excerpt from Katak Lompat; melody in the lower brass/wind from m. 21 with a contrasting attitude/style from 1st strain; back to a more lyrical treatment from m. 29.Trio37-56Stays unmodulated in the same key; opens with a percussion solo feature before the start of the softer Trio theme; keep this section controlled and be sensitive to the balance; the metallic timbre of the muted trumpet/cornet needs to be heard clearly (might suggest to bring the dynamic level up to mf when muted); if cued-notes are played, make sure they are played throughout the melodic phrase as written to avoid awkward leaps.Break Strain57-62Excerpt from Rasa Sayang with some play in tonality and instrumental dialogue; quasi grandioso-style before the final strain.Final Strain63-82Back to Eb major with the reprise of the Trio theme; festive-like style with fuller orchestration and new countermelodies; dotted rhythm motif from the introduction concludes the march in a codetta-like section from m. 79.NOTE TO THE CONDUCTORThis march has been carefully written with reasonable technicalities and range in mind for younger players. Generally, optional cued notes in parenthesis are given for less experienced players who have yet to develop their range on the instrument. However, they should never be taken as an easy alternative for all players in the section; otherwise, this may result in a less than ideal flow of the musical lines. Marches are good tools to train tempo consistency, articulation and rhythmic precision as well as musical phrasing. I hope that there will be great learning opportunities for your students as they learn this piece.This march is separately orchestrated for both wind and brass bands to maximize the instrumental colors within each ensemble. The parts are therefore not exchangeable between the wind band and brass band sets.I wish you the best in the performance of this work.- Benjamin Yeo.

SKU: CF.CPS245F

ISBN 9781491158135. UPC: 680160916733. 9 x 12 inches.

ABOUT THE MUSIC Future of Tomorrow (Concert March) was commissioned by the Arts Education Branch, Ministry of Education as the set piece for the Singapore Youth Festival 2016 Arts Presentation for Concert and Brass Bands (Primary Level). This march uses brief excerpts from the well-known Malay folk songs Katak Lompat and Rasa Sayang. Our youths are indeed our future of tomorrow. This joyful-themed march aims to bring out the best in each of your young players. I hope that students, band directors and audiences will enjoy preparing, performing and listening to this work. EDUCATIONAL NOTES Key: Eb Major SECTION BARS EVENT / SCORING / SUGGESTIONS Introduction 1-4 Opens in Eb major with dotted rhythm motif. 1st Strain 5-20 Take note of melodic phrasing above the (light) oom-pah ostinato; melody repeats at m. 13 with the addition of countermelody in the inner lines; although written at mf dynamic, this anew ideaa needs to be heard clearly for contrast with the previous statement. 2nd Strain 21-36 C minor (relative minor); excerpt from Katak Lompat; melody in the lower brass/wind from m. 21 with a contrasting attitude/style from 1st strain; back to a more lyrical treatment from m. 29. Trio 37-56 Stays unmodulated in the same key; opens with a percussion solo feature before the start of the softer Trio theme; keep this section controlled and be sensitive to the balance; the metallic timbre of the muted trumpet/cornet needs to be heard clearly (might suggest to bring the dynamic level up to mf when muted); if cued-notes are played, make sure they are played throughout the melodic phrase as written to avoid awkward leaps. Break Strain 57-62 Excerpt from Rasa Sayang with some play in tonality and instrumental dialogue; quasi grandioso-style before the final strain. Final Strain 63-82 Back to Eb major with the reprise of the Trio theme; festive-like style with fuller orchestration and new countermelodies; dotted rhythm motif from the introduction concludes the march in a codetta-like section from m. 79. NOTE TO THE CONDUCTOR This march has been carefully written with reasonable technicalities and range in mind for younger players. Generally, optional cued notes in parenthesis are given for less experienced players who have yet to develop their range on the instrument. However, they should never be taken as an easy alternative for all players in the section; otherwise, this may result in a less than ideal flow of the musical lines. Marches are good tools to train tempo consistency, articulation and rhythmic precision as well as musical phrasing. I hope that there will be great learning opportunities for your students as they learn this piece. This march is separately orchestrated for both wind and brass bands to maximize the instrumental colors within each ensemble. The parts are therefore not exchangeable between the wind band and brass band sets. I wish you the best in the performance of this work. - Benjamin Yeo.
ABOUT THE MUSIC Future of Tomorrow (Concert March) was commissioned by the Arts Education Branch, Ministry of Education as the set piece for the Singapore Youth Festival 2016 Arts Presentation for Concert and Brass Bands (Primary Level). This march uses brief excerpts from the well-known Malay folk songs Katak Lompat and Rasa Sayang. Our youths are indeed our future of tomorrow. This joyful-themed march aims to bring out the best in each of your young players. I hope that students, band directors and audiences will enjoy preparing, performing and listening to this work. EDUCATIONAL NOTES Key: Eb Major SECTION BARS EVENT / SCORING / SUGGESTIONS Introduction 1-4 Opens in Eb major with dotted rhythm motif. 1st Strain 5-20 Take note of melodic phrasing above the (light) oom-pah ostinato; melody repeats at m. 13 with the addition of countermelody in the inner lines; although written at mf dynamic, this 'new idea' needs to be heard clearly for contrast with the previous statement. 2nd Strain 21-36 C minor (relative minor); excerpt from Katak Lompat; melody in the lower brass/wind from m. 21 with a contrasting attitude/style from 1st strain; back to a more lyrical treatment from m. 29. Trio 37-56 Stays unmodulated in the same key; opens with a percussion solo feature before the start of the softer Trio theme; keep this section controlled and be sensitive to the balance; the metallic timbre of the muted trumpet/cornet needs to be heard clearly (might suggest to bring the dynamic level up to mf when muted); if cued-notes are played, make sure they are played throughout the melodic phrase as written to avoid awkward leaps. Break Strain 57-62 Excerpt from Rasa Sayang with some play in tonality and instrumental dialogue; quasi grandioso-style before the final strain. Final Strain 63-82 Back to Eb major with the reprise of the Trio theme; festive-like style with fuller orchestration and new countermelodies; dotted rhythm motif from the introduction concludes the march in a codetta-like section from m. 79. NOTE TO THE CONDUCTOR This march has been carefully written with reasonable technicalities and range in mind for younger players. Generally, optional cued notes in parenthesis are given for less experienced players who have yet to develop their range on the instrument. However, they should never be taken as an easy alternative for all players in the section; otherwise, this may result in a less than ideal flow of the musical lines. Marches are good tools to train tempo consistency, articulation and rhythmic precision as well as musical phrasing. I hope that there will be great learning opportunities for your students as they learn this piece. This march is separately orchestrated for both wind and brass bands to maximize the instrumental colors within each ensemble. The parts are therefore not exchangeable between the wind band and brass band sets. I wish you the best in the performance of this work. - Benjamin Yeo.
ABOUT THE MUSICFuture of Tomorrow (Concert March) was commissioned by the Arts Education Branch, Ministry of Education as the set piece for the Singapore Youth Festival 2016 Arts Presentation for Concert and Brass Bands (Primary Level). This march uses brief excerpts from the well-known Malay folk songs Katak Lompat and Rasa Sayang.Our youths are indeed our future of tomorrow. This joyful-themed march aims to bring out the best in each of your young players. I hope that students, band directors and audiences will enjoy preparing, performing and listening to this work.EDUCATIONAL NOTESKey: Eb MajorSECTIONBARSEVENT / SCORING / SUGGESTIONSIntroduction1-4Opens in Eb major with dotted rhythm motif.1st Strain5-20Take note of melodic phrasing above the (light) oom-pah ostinato;melody repeats at m. 13 with the addition of countermelody in the inner lines; although written at mf dynamic, this ‘new idea’ needs to be heard clearly for contrast with the previous statement.2nd Strain21-36C minor (relative minor); excerpt from Katak Lompat; melody in the lower brass/wind from m. 21 with a contrasting attitude/style from 1st strain; back to a more lyrical treatment from m. 29.Trio37-56Stays unmodulated in the same key; opens with a percussion solo feature before the start of the softer Trio theme; keep this section controlled and be sensitive to the balance; the metallic timbre of the muted trumpet/cornet needs to be heard clearly (might suggest to bring the dynamic level up to mf when muted); if cued-notes are played, make sure they are played throughout the melodic phrase as written to avoid awkward leaps.Break Strain57-62Excerpt from Rasa Sayang with some play in tonality and instrumental dialogue; quasi grandioso-style before the final strain.Final Strain63-82Back to Eb major with the reprise of the Trio theme; festive-like style with fuller orchestration and new countermelodies; dotted rhythm motif from the introduction concludes the march in a codetta-like section from m. 79.NOTE TO THE CONDUCTORThis march has been carefully written with reasonable technicalities and range in mind for younger players. Generally, optional cued notes in parenthesis are given for less experienced players who have yet to develop their range on the instrument. However, they should never be taken as an easy alternative for all players in the section; otherwise, this may result in a less than ideal flow of the musical lines. Marches are good tools to train tempo consistency, articulation and rhythmic precision as well as musical phrasing. I hope that there will be great learning opportunities for your students as they learn this piece.This march is separately orchestrated for both wind and brass bands to maximize the instrumental colors within each ensemble. The parts are therefore not exchangeable between the wind band and brass band sets.I wish you the best in the performance of this work.- Benjamin Yeo.

SKU: CF.SPS91F

ISBN 9781491158319. UPC: 680160916917. 9 x 12 inches.

This new interpretation of the Christmas standard begins with a chorale statement of the original hymn and then heads into new territory as various percussion instruments are added to the mix. Changing time signatures, unique rhythmic patterns and various musical styles are explored as the piece builds to a climactic ending that will provide an exciting, memorable finale to your holiday concert. Note: The chorale section after the intro (mm. 13 through 35) should be played very expressively in a rubato style.
This new interpretation of the Christmas standard begins with a chorale statement of the original hymn and then heads into new territory as various percussion instruments are added to the mix. Changing time signatures, unique rhythmic patterns and various musical styles are explored as the piece builds to a climactic ending that will provide an exciting, memorable finale to your holiday concert.Note: The chorale section after the intro (mm. 13 through 35) should be played very expressively in a rubato style.

SKU: CF.CPS228

ISBN 9781491152546. UPC: 680160910045.

Black light is defined as infrared or ultraviolet light which is invisible to the naked eye. The idea of an entire spectra existing out of the range of human perception was a large influencing factor for George Sweet in the composition of this piece. Richly scored for the modern concert band, Black Light is written in a post-minimalist style and is also heavily influenced by the work of American composers Steve Reich, John Adams, and Philip Glass.
Black light is defined as infrared or ultraviolet light which is invisible to the naked eye. The idea of an entire spectra existing out of the range of human perception was an influencing factor on the composition of the piece. Black Light is written in a post-minimalist style and is also heavily influenced by the work of American composers Steve Reich, John Adams, and Philip Glass.This begins with strict motor accompaniment. Take care to maintain equal balance among the different “moving parts” so that they blend to create a solid whole both here and throughout the piece. The primary thematic material is stated by the trumpets and horns at m. 12. This material is the basis for much of the harmonic and thematic material that follows. A slightly varied statement of the main theme is presented again at m. 26 with a different type of motor accompaniment. This leads to a B-section at m. 44, which is a bold fanfare-like presentation of the main material. Another series of variations on the main theme begins at m. 50 and incorporates many different textural and harmonic ideas in the accompaniment. Once again, be careful to not let any one “moving part” overwhelm another and keep the texture evenly balanced.  A second, broader presentation of the B-section occurs at m. 90 and leads to a subdued C-section at m. 100 with new melodic material presented in the trumpet. A whimsical march-like section pushes to the return of the introductory motor material at m. 131. A final heroic presentation of the main thematic material results in a somewhat ambiguous coda, which brings the piece to a dramatic conclusion.

SKU: CF.YPS211

ISBN 9781491152300. UPC: 680160909803. Key: F major.

A Certain Slant of Light is inspired by the introspective mood created by the rays of light on a dark cloudy day.  A colorful, murmuring introduction is followed by a rich main theme in a minor key. It is a well-scored and fresh-sounding piece that will help young bands enhance their musicality.
Rays of light against the dark of a cloudy day, or these same rays of light as they penetrate a dark room in late afternoon can create a mood of introspection and make us pause to reflect on the nature of life, loss and hope. A Certain Slant of Light is inspired by the title, but does not depict the actual poem There is a Certain Slant of Light by Emily Dickinson.A Certain Slant of Light opens with a colorful murmuring introduction followed immediately by a statement of the main theme of the piece. The opening briefly returns, followed by a setting of the melody in flute with woodwind accompaniment. The opening then returns and grows to a climax built on variations of the main theme. The piece fades to silence with a soft echo of the opening murmuring material.I enjoyed writing this piece and hope your students will enjoy playing these contrasting styles and that you will find the piece beneficial in teaching important musical concepts.Peter Terry, 2018.

SKU: CF.CPS225F

ISBN 9781491153192. UPC: 680160910694.

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.

SKU: CF.SPS63F

ISBN 9781491141090. UPC: 680160629152. 9 x 12 inches.

So Wondrous Bright is a fresh, unique take on a Puerto Rican carol. Composer Carol Brittin Chambers' setting is full of Latin infused rhythms and percussion. It will make a strong statement at your next holiday concert by adding some multicultural flair.

SKU: CF.YPS211F

ISBN 9781491152980. UPC: 680160910489.

A Certain Slant of Light is inspired by the introspective mood created by the rays of light on a dark cloudy day.  A colorful, murmuring introduction is followed by a rich main theme in a minor key. It is a well-scored and fresh-sounding piece that will help young bands enhance their musicality.
Rays of light against the dark of a cloudy day, or these same rays of light as they penetrate a dark room in late afternoon can create a mood of introspection and make us pause to reflect on the nature of life, loss and hope. A Certain Slant of Light is inspired by the title, but does not depict the actual poem There is a Certain Slant of Light by Emily Dickinson.A Certain Slant of Light opens with a colorful murmuring introduction followed immediately by a statement of the main theme of the piece. The opening briefly returns, followed by a setting of the melody in flute with woodwind accompaniment. The opening then returns and grows to a climax built on variations of the main theme. The piece fades to silence with a soft echo of the opening murmuring material.I enjoyed writing this piece and hope your students will enjoy playing these contrasting styles and that you will find the piece beneficial in teaching important musical concepts.Peter Terry, 2018.