Exciting Moments

SKU: CF.FAS39

ISBN 9780825863301. UPC: 798408063306. 8.5 X 11 inches. Key: D major.

Virginia Croft's experience as a string player and educator is evident in the care with which she has scored this beautiful folk tune idiomatically for young string players. Relatively easy to play, Skye Boat Song is a great opportunity to develop lyrical playing habits with a developing string group.
Here is a very playable setting of a beautiful Scottish folk song. It commemorates one of the most exciting moments in Scottish history in the middle of the eighteenth century during the Jacobite Rebellion. At this time, a small group of men escaped by night in a tiny boat across the rough sea to the Isle of Skye to save the life of the young lad whom they believed to be the rightful heir to the throne of Scotland.As you play this music, can't you feel the boat rocking and the oarsmen straining at their posts against the sea? The long diminuendo from m. 51 to the end passes the final melodic fragment down through the voices until the small boat has vanished into the distance, leaving only the water.The words of the original folk song are:Speed, bonnie boat, like a bird on the wind;Hark, how the seagulls cray!Carry the lad that was born to be kindOver the sea to Skye!.

SKU: GI.G-EH1005

UPC: 748769410059. Text by William Blake.

This fiery setting of William Blake’s The Tyger is sure to be a thrilling piece for your SA choir! Energetic mixed meter combined with an active piano accompaniment create exciting moments to hear the tiger growl and pounce. Consider programming as a companion piece with Elaine’s setting of Blake’s The Lamb.

SKU: HL.4008329

ISBN 9781705198100. UPC: 196288148517.

Snow Steps describes a winter hike through snowy forests in the Austrian Alps, in which tracks appear in the snow. Catchy melodies, exciting moments of silence, memories of alpine music and a thrilling chase make this a piece full of all sorts of fun challenges.

SKU: CF.YPS252

ISBN 9781491161357. UPC: 680160919949.

A new day. A new event. A new opportunity. We look forward to these things and the potential they hold. We live our lives looking forward, but we understand them looking backward (a thought of Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard). We do not always know what the future may hold, but we must remember: first, there are no guarantees beyond the time and opportunity we are given to do good. Second, change around us is inevitable. Finally, and the most important aspect, we have choices. This lesson is fixed to the composer's office door: Today is the greatest day of your life, if you want it to be. Why not look forward to the Promise on the Horizon and the possibilities for greatness that lie within it? The opening motif of this concert fanfare is purposely inquisitive as the piece seeks to establish its first steps. The subtle shift at measure 37 and again at measure 69 are reminders of the challenges that await us during the journey. Here again it is a matter of choice - do we choose to let circumstances define us, or do we define the circumstances? The section at 93 is a resounding answer that we will move barriers, overcome obstacles and keep our vision looking forward. The piece builds toward an exciting conclusion from measure 127 onward. The piece reinforces several basic rhythmic patterns in 6/8 time. As a number of these rhythms are repeated, it provides an easy opportunity for the entire ensemble to grow more comfortable performing in this meter. While it is a fanfare-type piece, remind young musicians to play with lightness and precision, rather than intensity in volume. Maintaining this style of articulation and accuracy helps the rhythms in 6/8 time maintain their buoyancy. It is vital that each musician listens for the melody and balances their part, especially in moments where the melody is passed between sections. If vibes are not available, a second bell set can be employed in its place. It is hoped that this piece is an uplifting way to open your next concert, and a meaningful opportunity for you to discuss the power of making positive choices with your students in the ensemble (as a reminder, regular practicing of their instrument is a positive choice). Wishing you and your ensemble well as you look to the Promise on the Horizon.
A new day. A new event. A new opportunity. We look forward to these things and the potential they hold. We live our lives looking forward, but we understand them looking backward (a thought of Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard). We do not always know what the future may hold, but we must remember: first,  there are no guarantees beyond the time and opportunity we are given to do good. Second, change around us is inevitable. Finally, and the most important aspect, we have choices. This  lesson is fixed to the composer's office door: “Today is the greatest day of your life, if you want it to be.” Why not look forward to the Promise on the Horizon and the possibilities for greatness that lie within it?The opening motif of this concert fanfare is purposely inquisitive as the piece seeks to establish its first steps. The subtle shift at measure 37 and again at measure 69 are reminders of the challenges that await us during the journey. Here again it is a matter of choice – do we choose to let circumstances define us, or do we define the circumstances? The section at 93 is a resounding answer that we will move barriers, overcome obstacles and keep our vision looking forward. The piece builds toward an exciting conclusion from measure 127 onward. The piece reinforces several basic rhythmic patterns in 6/8 time. As a number of these rhythms are repeated, it provides an easy opportunity for the entire ensemble to grow more comfortable performing in this meter. While it is a fanfare-type piece, remind young musicians to play with lightness and precision, rather than intensity in volume. Maintaining this style of articulation and accuracy helps the rhythms in 6/8 time maintain their buoyancy. It is vital that each musician listens for the melody and balances their part, especially in moments where the melody is passed between sections. If vibes are not available, a second bell set can be employed in its place. It is hoped that this piece is an uplifting way to open your next concert, and a meaningful opportunity for you to discuss the power of making positive choices with your students in the ensemble (as a reminder, regular practicing of their instrument is a positive choice). Wishing you and your ensemble well as you look to the Promise on the Horizon. .

SKU: CF.SPS94

ISBN 9781491161449. UPC: 680160920037.

On November 5th, 2017, a mass shooting took place at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Twenty-six innocent people lost their lives that day, including an unborn child. Overture to a Small Town is dedicated to these victims and the loved ones they left behind. From the biggest cities to the smallest towns, the senseless bloodshed must end. Despite the darkness of this tragedy, it is my intent through this music to portray a sense of hope, dignity, and innocence deserved by all America's cities and towns. The opening moments of this piece should be treated delicately, ensuring that the brass section moves together in one unified voice, and that the crotales evoke distant flickers of light. Similarly, in mm. 120-127, articulations in the flutes, trumpets and mallets should be strong enough to be heard, but without being aggressive. The textural layering in mm. 48-53 should be executed with machine-like precision of both rhythm and articulation. This passage should evoke the sound of many voices rising together. There should be a great contrast between the opening Piano dynamic and the final Forte dynamic. In mm. 65-69, both mallet percussionists may play the indicated notes in any octave they choose. Both players should move rapidly between notes in any order. This passage should sound fluid and ethereal. In mm. 69-73: If there is no English Horn available to the ensemble, the Trumpet should play this passage solo. If there is an English Horn, both instruments should play the passage together. This impressionistic composition about these vanished structures, although written for more advanced ensembles, has only one flute, clarinet, trumpet, horn and trombone part. As a result, smaller bands can play this composition without having to look for a flex-band arrangement. Use this to develop the essential skills of syncopation and counting while also offering the security of only having one part for each instrument voice. An exciting contrasting selection for bands looking for a harmonically interesting composition, this also works well as a contest selection.  .
On November 5th, 2017, a mass shooting took place at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Twenty-six innocent people lost their lives that day, including an unborn child. Overture to a Small Town is dedicated to these victims and the loved ones they left behind. From the biggest cities to the smallest towns, the  senseless bloodshed must end. Despite the darkness of this tragedy, it is my intent through this music to portray a sense of hope, dignity, and innocence deserved by all America’s cities and towns.  The opening moments of this piece should be treated delicately, ensuring that the brass section moves together in one unified voice, and that the crotales evoke distant flickers of light. Similarly, in mm. 120-127, articulations in the flutes, trumpets and mallets should be strong enough to be heard, but without being aggressive.  The textural layering in mm. 48-53 should be executed with machine-like precision of both rhythm and articulation. This passage should evoke the sound of many voices rising together. There should be a great contrast between the opening Piano dynamic and the final Forte dynamic.  In mm. 65-69, both mallet percussionists may play the indicated notes in any octave they choose. Both players should move rapidly between notes in any order. This passage should sound fluid and ethereal.  In mm. 69-73: If there is no English Horn available to the ensemble, the Trumpet should play this passage solo. If there is an English Horn, both instruments should play the passage together.This impressionistic composition about these vanished structures, although written for more advanced ensembles, has only one flute, clarinet, trumpet, horn and trombone part. As a result, smaller bands can play this composition without having to look for a flex-band arrangement. Use this to develop the essential skills of syncopation and counting while also offering the security of only having one part for each instrument voice. An exciting contrasting selection for bands looking for a harmonically interesting composition, this also works well as a contest selection. .

SKU: CF.CM9732

ISBN 9781491161128. UPC: 680160919710. Key: E major. English. American Folk Songs: incorporating Cindy and The Water is Wide.

Fueled by a passion to share new music that engages conductors, ensembles, and audiences alike, Michael John Trotta (b.1978) is fast becoming one of the most exciting and prominent new composers of choral music. Drawing on his experience as a conductor and clinician, he brings artistry and excellence within reach for thousands of musicians each year. From Carnegie Hall to classrooms all over the world, Trotta's unique blend of engaging and artistic music creates opportunities to experience new music and empowers individuals to realize their artistic potential. His engaging style fuses tradition and innovation to create moments of beauty that effectively carry out a dialogue between the [music] and the modern listener. (Choral Journal).
Fueled by a passion to share new music that engages conductors, ensembles, and audiences alike, Michael John Trotta (b.1978) is fast becoming one of the most exciting and prominent new composers of choral music. Drawing on his experience as a conductor and clinician, he brings artistry and excellence within reach for thousands of musicians each year.From Carnegie Hall to classrooms all over the world, Trotta’s unique blend of engaging and artistic music creates opportunities to experience new music and empowers individuals to realize their artistic potential. His engaging style fuses tradition and innovation to create moments of beauty that “effectively carry out a dialogue between the [music] and the modern listener.” https://www.mjtrotta.com/choral-journal-review/.

SKU: CL.023-4539-01

Alien Crossfire combines contrasting themes to create powerful and exciting musical moments that your students will be eager to perform. The battle is on in this adventurous and exciting fanfare/opener for beginning bands. Using only the first six notes taught in most beginning band methods, Alien Crossfire is a dramatic and accessible work that will thrill students and audiences. Highly recommended!

SKU: CL.011-4940-00

This inspired piece of music will bring an excitement and spark to your next concert as an opener or a celebratory closer. Written with education in mind, this selection will awaken your developing bands’ curiosity around 6/8- and 3/4-time and relationships. Driving percussion propels this work forward with excitement. Packed with teachable moments, fun to play, and exciting to listen to, Nexus Fanfare really connects!

SKU: BT.DHP-1115057-010

9x12 inches. English-German-French-Dutch.

Pierius Magnus is a historical figure from the Friesland area of Holland. He was a farmer who became a resistance fighter against Dutch oppressors in around 1500. Whether Magnus was a hero or barbarian is still debatable, but composer Jan de Haan was fascinated by the exciting story and let it fuel his imagination. The protagonist is introduced with a capricious theme which is followed by “De Arumer Swarte Heap,“ the troops who took to the battlefields against the Dutch. An eerie calm takes over moments before Pier and his troops let their battle cries sound. The work ends as the disillusioned Pier retreats. A concert work overflowing with excitement!

Pierius Magnus is een historisch figuur uit Friesland. Hij was boer én opstandeling tegen de Hollandse onderdrukkers, zo rond het jaar 1500. Was hij een held? Was hij een barbaar? Hoe we hem ook willen zien, Jan de Haan zag in GruttePier ieder geval een spannende bron van inspiratie in voor een compositie. Hij stelt de nationale held direct in het begin aan ons voor met een grillig capricciothema. Daarna volgt: ‘De Arumer Swarte Heap’, zijn bende mannen dieten strijde trok tegen de Hollanders. Een moment van rust valt in. Maar niet voor lang, want de strijd barst in alle hevigheid los! Het werk eindigt met het terugtrekken van een gedesillusioneerde Grutte Pier...

Pierius Magnus ist eine historische Figur aus Friesland, ein Bauer und Aufständischer gegen die holländischen Unterdrücker um 1500. Ob Held oder Barbar lässt sich heute einfach nicht zweifelsfrei belegen, aber der Komponist fand die Geschichte einfach zu spannend, um sie nciht als Inspirationsquelle zu nutzen. In Pierius Magnus wird der Nationalheld gleich zu Beginn des Werkes mit einem kapriziösen Thema vorgestellt, gefolgt von seinem Haufen De Arumer Swarte Heap. Dann- bevor der Kampf beginnt- tritt ein Moment der Ruhe ein, bevor Pier und seine Truppe in den Kampf ziehen. Das Werk endet mit dem Rücken des desillusionierten Pierius.

Pier Gerlofs Donia est l’un des personnages les plus célèbres de l’histoire de la Frise au cours des années 1500. L’Histoire ne nous permet pas de discerner les réelles intentions de cet homme surnommé le grand Pier de par son imposante stature. Était-il un combattant de la liberté ou un authentique barbare ? Le compositeur a trouvé toutefois en cette emblématique figure, une source d’inspiration fascinante.

Pierius Grelofs Donia è una delle più celebri figure della storia della regione olandese della Frisia nel corso del 1500. La storia non ci permette di discernere le reali intenzioni di quest’uomo soprannominato Grutte Pier (il grande Pier) per la sua statura imponente. Fu un paladino della libert o un semplice barbaro? Il compositore ha trovato in questa emblematica figura un’affascinante fonte d’ispirazione. Le prime misure di Pierius Magnus descrivono l’eroe nazionale attraverso un tema capriccioso. Un secondo tema dipinge la brigata nera di Arum, pronta ad affrontare gli olandesi. Un breve momento di calma fa da preludio al combattimento, prima che Pier Grelofsentri in azione. Disilluso, il grande Pier si ritira; la fine dell’opera sancisce anche la fine del combattimento.