Grade 4

Grade: 4

Price: $74

Intriguing modes, authentic rhythms and vivid orchestrational contrasts are hallmarks of James Curnow's masterfully-crafted Appalachian Dances. The enchanting authentic Appalachian fiddle melodies are a musical treasure well worth reviving and bringing to the concert band stage. Snap rhythms recall the early heritage of hill country music in the first movement, which is followed by a richly harmonized air. The piece concludes with a rollicking third movement. In addition to being a memorable addition to your concert program, Appalachian Dances is just plain FUN to play. American musical heritage on display!

Grade: 4

Price: $85

Based on the traditional American shaped-note melody The Promised Land (first published in the 1800's), Beyond the Stars captures the spirit of the early American church musicians who voiced their enthusiasm for life and the freedom of worship through both vocal and instrumental music. The music features several mini-variations wrapped up in four large variations (Fast, Fast, Slow, Fast-recapitulation). The composer has created new thematic material for each variation by excerpting motifs from three separate phrases of the original shaped-note melody. A stunning and powerful work for winds. Dur: c. 6:20

Grade: 4

Price: $75

This distinctive six-movement suite is one of Jim Curnow's most requested works. Inspired by the writings of Saint Francis of Assisi, the suite succeeds in expressing his love for peace and his respect for all creatures. Each movement is a short tone poem that uses the modern concert band as the vehicle for creating spectacular musical images.

I. Prologue

II. Brother Sun

III. Sister Moon and Stars

IV. Brother Fire

V. Mother Earth

VI. Epilogue

Grade: 4

Price: $99

(Trumpet Solo with Concert Band)

From the dynamic, driving introduction to the expressively lyric Andante cantabile, Concertpiece for Trumpet was created to showcase both the technical and lyrical qualities of the trumpet. Whether cascading down difficult runs, negotiating its way through exciting double-tonguing passages, or soaring above the ensemble during the most expressive moments, the trumpet soloist is challenged to perform at an extremely high standard of excellence.

After an expressive middle section, the brilliance and energy of the opening allegro returns, then the coda focuses on the interplay between the soloist and the ensemble. A dramatic flourish of ascending runs brings this work to a fitting conclusion.

Grade: 4

Price: $59

Based on Marc-Antoine Charpentier's (1634-1704) “Te Deum,” FANFARE AND FLOURISHES was originally commissioned for the 1991 European Brass Band Championships held in Rotterdam, Holland.

Grade: 4

Price: $99

For Tuba in C (B.C.)

The composition begins with the solo tuba stating the four notes (F, Bb, G, C) on which the entire piece is based. All other themes, and much of the harmony, are built on these four notes and their permutations. There are four main sections, with a brief cadenza before the last movement.

Grade: 4

Price: $79

A brillant opener or a rousing finale! Either way, this is the piece that will make memories and stir your audience's comments at your winter concert. A bravura exploration of the well-known 13th-century melody March of the Three Kings (also arranged by Bizet as “Farandole” in L'Arlesienne), Fantasia on a 13th-Century Carol will catch and hold everyone's attention from first note to last. James L. Hosay is a master of concert band composition, and many facets of his remarkable talent are clearly evident in this powerful new composition.

Grade: 4

Price: $65

Framed through variation around the great old shape-note melody “When I can read my title clear,” James Curnow's significant new composition, Land of Tomorow, is a wonderful expression of the composer's art. While traversing countless moods, the flow and continuity never falter, and the interest never fades. The band that plays at this level can only gain skill and knowledge through meticulous preparation of this enthralling composition. Every player can take deep satisfaction from a solid performance of this masterpiece. Powerful!

Grade: 4

Price: $85

The word “nexus” is defined as a tie or link between people and events. Nexus, for solo trumpet and band, includes several links between composer James Curnow and educator Alfred Watkins, to whom the work is dedicated. A well-known theme (particularly to Mr. Watkins' students) is drawn upon as the piece utilizes two primary musical settings. An energetic and agile scherzo appears in the beginning and again at the end, and is contrasted with an expressive Ballad theme. The soloist at the premiere (and on the recording) is Christopher Watkins, Alfred's son! This is a well-crafted and rewarding work for soloist and band alike. Dur: 6:00

Also available for trumpet with piano reduction - HL00231702.

Grade: 4

Price: $69

Tchaikovsky's lovely, melancholy melody was inspired by a poem that speaks of great sadness. Print the poem in your program, or have it recited as the band plays to create a deeply moving tribute to any and all departed loved ones. This is a simply gorgeous piece of music that explores dark tonalities and expressive performance.

Grade: 4

Price: $64

Edvard Grieg was one of the most important figures during Norway's nationalistic romantic period, and his music well conveys the essence of this beautiful Scandinavian country. The present work for concert band is from Two Elegiac Melodies for String Orchestra and retains all the beauty and solemnity of the original. Evoke the peaceful atmosphere of Grieg's native land with this beautiful, haunting work.

Grade: 4

Price: $79

A powerful statement for concert band! Composed in memory of trumpeter/conductor/educator Dr. Timothy E. Swinehart, this remarkable and uplifting new work by James Curnow will be an excellent finale piece for the musically mature band. As you will see as you begin to prepare it, this is an exceptionally dramatic expression of the musical art which fully utilizes the modern ensemble. Inspired by a poem by the great Walt Whitman, The Mystic Trumpeter is indeed a fitting tribute to the life and work of a fine and influential musician.

Grade: 4

Price: $50

The title is taken from a beautiful seaside resort on the coast of Southern Australia near Adelaide, which the composer had the opportunity to visit while on a lecture-conducting tour of Australia during the summer of 1982.

Grade: 4

Price: $79

James Curnow presents an outstanding new overture for band. A wealth of enchanting musical ideas are masterfully developed and contrasted in this magnificent composition. The ever-optimistic spirit of the pioneers is beautifully represented throughout this bright and cheerful concert offering. It's fun to play and an accessible joy for the audience to hear. Be sure and listen to the demonstration CD - you are sure to like Spirit of the Pioneers.

Grade: 4

Price: $70

Commissioned for the University of Massachusetts Lowell New England Youth Wind Ensemble, this significant composition by James Curnow is a pure delight. Interesting percussion and a wide range of expectations from every wind player lets all the musicians have the joy of being challenged. The creative exploration and development of these interesting old melodies rewards the entire ensemble in ways that shorter, more condensed pieces cannot. Dur: c. 9:00

  • Captain Kidd
  • The Jolly Old Roger
  • Polly Van