Mythos Unleashed
Mythos Unleashed is a musical odyssey that captures the enigmatic allure and captivating exploits of legendary heroes. The opening employs idiomatic chords, melodies, and motives to create a truly “cinematic” atmosphere that draws listeners in from the very first note. Then the piece “unleashes” and burns forward with passion and intrigue, with every section getting a moment to play melodic material. This thrilling addition to any concert program is the perfect opportunity for students to transport their audience on a magical journey back in time to the era of ancient heroes. And let's be honest... I love writing in a "cinematic" style for young band students. Lots of fun and makes it easy to have a cinematic play along (video on the right!)
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Woodland March
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Woodland March is a concert march for young band. It is in the key of Bb, beginning with an upper woodwind and snare drum “duet,” a nod to the drum and fife days. The rest of the band then joins for essentially an AABA form. The piece modulates to Eb major for the B section (without changing the key signature), then back to Bb for the end. Woodland March uses basic rhythms and limited range, perfect for a young band to begin learning and mastering “march style.”
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Spy Game
I've always loved "spy" movies. Whether we're talking James Bond, Jason Bourne, or the Incredibles.... I've always enjoyed the style of film. And as much as like the films themselves, I LOVE the music. There are so many idiomatic traits that every composer has a different take. Whether we're listening to original Bond scores for John Barry or John Powell's electronically infused Bourne scores, there are so many interesting motifs and themes out there.
Spy Game is a sneaky piece. There are twists and turns, creeping in the shadows and epic action sequences. And though each sequence doesnt have specific programmatic connotations, teachers and students should use their imagination as to what the spy protagonist has gotten mixed up in! The form is roughly an A-B-C-A-B-Coda. There is much repetition to not add too much extra material for younger players to learn. There are also a few Easter eggs of semi-quotes buried within. Spy Game would be a great programming choice to add some excitement and intrigue to the young band concert!
Spy Game is a sneaky piece. There are twists and turns, creeping in the shadows and epic action sequences. And though each sequence doesnt have specific programmatic connotations, teachers and students should use their imagination as to what the spy protagonist has gotten mixed up in! The form is roughly an A-B-C-A-B-Coda. There is much repetition to not add too much extra material for younger players to learn. There are also a few Easter eggs of semi-quotes buried within. Spy Game would be a great programming choice to add some excitement and intrigue to the young band concert!
This Old Man Variations
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This is a lively and fun arrangement of the famed folk tune “This Old Man.” The techniques used align with the latter part of most beginning band methods. Playful in nature, the melody is passed around from section to section-sometimes chopped up, sometimes varied. Each section (including low brass and percussion) gets to play the melody or harmony to the melody. This Old Man Variations would be a great addition to a young band concert!
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