Par DE HAAN JACOB. The Book of Urizen is a work for concert band, solo soprano, and a male narrator in which sound collages of religious expressions are used. The piece is inspired by the compelling visionary poem of the same name (which the poet illustratedhimself) by the Englishman William Blake (1757-1827), who occupies a unique position in western literature and the visual arts. He was not just a poet and a writer, but he was also a graphic artist, a painter, an illustrator, a spiritualist, areligious visionary, and a mystic philosopher. For the performance of this work, a professional sound system, including two microphones and a CD player, is needed. The three sound collages are three separate tracks on the enclosed CD and can beplayed easily at the right moment. The Book of Urizen bears resemblance to Genesis and Exodus, of which the contents form the basis of the Christian, Jewish, and Islamic faith. Blake adhered to the principle that all religions are in fact one, and that deities reside in human beings. In The Book of Urizen this is represented in “The Net of Religion, ” which is spanned over the earth by Urizen. The sound collages, compiled by Jacob de Haan in the studio, find their origin inJerusalem, the Holy City, where the afore-mentioned faiths “come together. ” In the first movement of this composition, The Vision, Urizen prepares his vision of the world, and he presents this to the “Eternals. ” His vision is rejected, and Urizen locks himself up in his own abstract world. When he does emerge again, he is confronted with rage by the gathered Eternals. Urizen flees the wrath of the Eternals, “the flames of eternal fury, ” and enwombs himself in his own world. Whenthe Eternals see Urizen in his “stony sleep, ” they wonder if this is death. The blacksmith Los is torn by grief because of the isolation of Urizen. It brings him to rouse his fires, prepare his forge, and to give Urizen’s world concrete form. In the second movement, The Creation, Urizen’s world, but also man, woman, and child are created. Los is horrified with the appearance of Urizen’s body. He mourns and pities Urizen, and from his blood a female form comes into being, with thename Enitharmon. The Eternals, fearful of the female form, decide to erect a tent to obstruct their view to eternity. Enitharmon and Los beget a son, called Orc. Los baptizes him as a child of the “fallen world. ” Orc is fed at Enitharmon’s breast, which makes a girdle of jealousy restrict Los’ chest. He takes the child to the top of the mountain and chains him down. The cries of Orc awaken Urizen, who explores his world creating instruments of scientific measurement to do so. Los encircles theface of Enitharmon from the sight of Urizen and Orc. She then populates the earth by giving birth to an enormous race. The Web, third movement of The Book of Urizen is now available: DHP 1125252 / Niveau : 5 / Pièce de concert / Répertoire / Concert Band ou Harmonie

Par KIDD BRYAN. This is one to get excited about! In the style of a “patrol” march, THE ROAD TO CHANCELLORSVILLE takes us back to that pivotal point in history, the American Civil War. The Battle of Chancellorsville is regarded as Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s most brilliant victory, but the cost was so high that the Secessionist forces never really recovered. They were forced to surrender less than two years later. Opening with light percussion and just two piccolos (substitute two flutes if necessary) this bright and easy march builds relentlessly from beginning to end. March into history with THE ROAD TO CHANCELLORSVILLE. / Niveau : 2 / Marche de concert / Répertoire / Concert Band

Par CURNOW JAMES. A joyous and exuberant sparkler for your next concert! This bright little bijou from James Curnow is a great way to start the show. It’s as inviting as they get and will engage every listener from start to finish. The easy excitement will motivate your Grade 2 band to their iridescent best. For groups playing regularly at a Grade 3 level EXCURSIONS also works well in the program following any heavy major work you may have chosen to perform. It’s a perfect way to lighten the mood and recapture those listeners who may be new to the art of listening to larger forms. Use it anywhere, anytime of the year. It’ll be quick to prepare, effective in concert, and has much more tooffer educationally than the typical “pop/movie tune” type of fare. Take a look! / Niveau : 2 / Ouverture / Répertoire / Concert Band

Par COURT DOUGLAS. Celebrate the spirit of youth! TAKE CENTER STAGE is a fresh, exciting new offering from Curnow Music Press. The energetic opening and first theme supported by an invigorating rhythmic undercurrent perfectly balance the 'cantabile' middle section. They lead relentlessly to the exhilarating conclusion. As always Douglas Court's music includes enjoyable parts for every player in the band, and this one is right on target for the skills of Grade 3 groups. A delightful opening piece for concert or festival, you may even consider using it with a 'mass band' or at an All-District concert. Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation annual festival includedabout 800 younginstrumentalists! / Niveau : 3 / Répertoire / Concert Band ou Harmonie

Par HOSAY JAMES L.. This delightful medley of timeless Scottish tunes speaks to the piper in all of us. Richly orchestrated and profuse with creative contrast, it will be an exciting addition to your next concert appearance. Regarding preparation, the ranges, rhythms and mixture of styles are right on target for this level band, and Piper’s Rhapsody is sure to become a favorite with your musicians. A study of Scotland’s culture and how the bagpipe and hornpipe are important would be appropriate. A find! / Niveau : 2.5 / Pièce de concert / Répertoire / Concert Band ou Harmonie