Elementary Band Literature

I’ve had a couple of inquiries from friends and colleagues about beginning band literature that I have completed. Below are a series of short links with suggestions on level of ensemble, and a few technical notes. In all cases, you can view a score image and listen to the recording as well. Best wishes to all elementary band directors as they will start many a great musician on their journey in the arts in just a few weeks.

Sonic Ascent (Grade 0.5) – It uses only the first 6 notes in a B-flat concert scale, and all sections get opportunities to contribute melodic material. Ideal for a band in their second semester of instrumental instruction. Available from Barnhouse.

Winds of a New Day (Grade 1.5) – A short fanfare work with contrast between bold and legato melodic lines. Ideal for a band late in their 3rd or early 4th semester of instrumental instruction. Available from Barnhouse.

I Bought Me A Band (Grade 2) – Though listed at a 2, this plays MUCH closer to a 1. There are a few short meter changes, and there are a number of repeated sections as we travel through the children’s song “I Bought Me A Cat”. This is a great recruitment concert selection as each section of the band gets their own soli. Ideal for a band late in their 3rd or early 4th semester of instrumental instruction. Available from Barnhouse.

Let Them Soar! (Grade 2) – Listed at a 2, this delightful little work includes wonderful contrast and a beautiful four part round in the middle section. Thankful for friend and colleague Dr. Joseph M. Pisano who did the recording for me one take!  Ideal for a band in their 4th semester of instrumental instruction. Available from Bandworks Publications.

Marshalls of the Open Range (Grade 1) – A challenge piece from friend Dennis Emert, this was my first work for elementary band published. As far as I know, it can be ordered through J.W. Pepper. Ideal for a band in their late 2nd or early 3rd semester of instrumental music instruction.

Thanks for the inquiries, and I hope this music can be of service to your students and your teaching in the coming year. Thank you in advance for your support of this music, and best wishes to elementary bands everywhere!