Gazing into the sky, one may be overcome with the infinite possibilities of our worlds and, thus, ourselves. It is this sense of wonder and hope that has been captured in 'Skygazer Fanfare.' This work for concert band uses syncopated rhythms, layered percussion, and a sense of forward motion to create an exciting soundscape for young musicians. Careful attention has been paid to range and scoring to create a work that is attainable by smaller ensembles while retaining a full sound for larger ensembles as well. (2:20) / Concert Band

This piece starts with immediate exhilaration and velocity, and is full of energy, with uplifting syncopated rhythms and strong melodic lines that will engage both the students and audience. The legato section is representative of the time when a skydiver enjoys the beauty of the scenery. The energy and thrill come back and drive to the end with non-stop excitement. (3:40) / Concert Band

Transcribed from the notorious Russian composer, Anton Stepanovich Arensky, this overture to his ballet suite is reminiscent of his predominantly romantic and classical repertoire. Scored with vivid colors and timbres for concert band, this charming work will be well received as a concert or contest work. (6:30) / Concert Band

Reflecting many of the composer's childhood memories growing up in the deep South, this work rises high into the sky. Original, folk-style melodies along with contemporary harmonies will make this work a perfect contest or concert piece for your concert band. (6:00) / Concert Band

In Greek mythology, Helios is a Titan who faithfully drove the Sun's chariot across the sky each day, disappearing in the west into Oceanus (the ocean, which the Greeks believed encircled the Earth), and rising out of it again in the east the next morning. Helios' journey at sunrise is referenced musically by the ascending leap in the main theme and the strong driving rhythms of the low winds and percussion. The contrasting light and dark textures in the slow section depict twilight inevitably giving way to the darkness of night. (2:45) / Concert Band

Par BOSVELD JAN. Shortly after the Second World War, a combative movement of Danish, Belgian and Dutch artists chose the cobra snake - extremely dangerous yet considered sacred - as a symbol of their resistance to strict guideliness of form. The name 'Cobra' also happens to contain the first letters of the cities Copenhagen, Brussels ans Amsterdam, from where most of the movement's members came. The Cobra movement, which existed from November 1948 until November 1951, can with some justicication be called the last major avant-garde movement of the 20th century. The source of inspiration for the composition Cobra comes from four paintings: 'Obhobning' by the Dane Egill Jacobsen; 'La jeune fille et lamort' by the Belgian Pierre Alechinsky; 'Orgeldraaier' and 'Le rythme joyeux de la ville' by the Dutch artists Karel Appel and Corneille. Obhobning means 'pile-up', which is represented musically in the first part by a melodic and harmonic pilling up of perfect fourth's. The first part is also characterized by a rhythmic feeling, which the painting gives through its use of numerous black stripes. In the painting La jeune fille et la mort, Pierre Alechinsky places a young girl opposite Death. The second part features the constantly pulsating motion of live while a creeping, dark, melodic line develops. The tension between life and death is tangible as a battle reveals itself. In part three, one hears the Orgeldraaier by Karel Appel, as cheerful and playful as an organ grinder's music. The painting Le rythme joyeux de la ville by Corneille is busy and extremely dynamic, a perfect source of inspiration for a powerful, rhythmic ending to this composition. / Niveau : 4 / Pièce de concert / Répertoire / Concert Band ou Harmonie