This music marries the sounds of Spain, particularly highlighting flamenco dance rhythms, with the Missouri State Song, entitled the Missouri Waltz. Young musicians will be challenged by the syncopated rhythms and shifting keys.
In pursuit of music to challenge and inspire band students, Scepters and Thrones is written to stimulate the imagination of what life might have been like among Royal Courts in the Middle Ages. Kings ruled the land and assumed charge of ordering armies to defend their territories. Scepters and Thrones begins with the call of the horn played by muted trumpets, signaling troops to assemble. Drums in the battery take over to advance the soldiers. Several themes represent the confidence and determination of the troops to reach victory. A slow, pensive theme in the middle reminds us of the sadness of loss, which inevitably accompanies warring conflict. The final section, in harmonic minor, expresses the chaos of war and the clashes among kingdoms, as armies retreat from battle. Students will be challenged by multiple key changes and syncopated rhythms.
The dawn of the 21st Century included a renewed focus on climate change and global warming. Scientists, World leaders and entrepreneurs were instrumental in creating organizations to reverse the effects of global warming on the planet Earth. Evidence of concern revolved around increased severe storms, hurricanes and forest fires. This piece of music depicts one of the many forest fires that has occurred in the U.S. The music begins in the forest, where the wind is blowing carelessly through the trees. A small spark, played by the cymbal, ignites into ground flames, traveling quickly across the forest floor. Soon full flames erupt, shooting into the sky, which can be heard in the high woodwinds. The strong, marching melody played by the brass, represents Fire Fighters who are deployed to stop the fire and attempt to save all living creatures. The descending chromatic scales represent chemical sprays and water used to douse the fire. The final chords represent the tragic desolation of a once bountiful life in the forest.
This work was first performed by the Trailridge Middle School Band in Shawnee, KS, Doug Talley, Director.
Often when I travel, people ask where I’m from. When I reply I live in Kansas, their eyebrows lift and they ask if we have cows roaming around! It is true, Kansas is smack in the middle of the U.S. and not a lot of folks travel to Kansas as a tourist destination. It is very flat and there is not a lot to see along the highway. It takes about 8 hours to cross the state on I-70 and you’ll probably want to bring some good podcasts or recordings. However, there is one stretch that is breath-takingly beautiful with wide open space and massive prairie called the Flint Hills. There is just enough change in the color and terrain to make you wake up and look out. While enjoying the view, which can be stunning during a sunset, imagine what may have taken place across this land. This music attempts to reflect on the beauty and history of the Flint Hills from early settlers loping on horses or in covered wagons, to conflicts that may have arisen with Native Americans, to visiting today where your mind can wander, as you take in the magnitude. This work was read by the World Youth Wind Symphony, Dr. Steven Davis, Conductor, at Interlochen 2019, edited and now ready for you to play!
Belonging to a school, a neighborhood, a city or an organization provides people a common experience, stimulating their sense of loyalty. These experiences, history and geography provide people with common values and beliefs that unite. People of a country, united with a sense of attachment and alliance with other citizens, are described as patriotic. Remaining loyal, sharing commonalities and defending rights are all tenets of patriotism. Americans express their patriotism in many ways. Patriotism can be expressed with symbols, flags, songs or celebrations. This piece of music is in remembrance of a patriotic foundation, representing the common goals of Americans. It is a tribute to those who serve in all capacities, as they strive to be true to self and country.
The opening fanfare with a dotted quarter, eighth rhythm announces the spirit of patriotism providing a feeling of forward motion. The following themes represent steadfast principles of those who stand up for their beliefs and remain loyal. The ostinato in the low brass sets a foundation to support motives in the upper brass and woodwinds. A brief statement of “America, My Country ‘Tis of Thee” before the final fanfare, stirs memories and sentiments that draw us together.
This work was read and critiqued by students at Oxford Middle School in Overland Park, KS, Joe Stuever, Director
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