Today we’re delving into one of the most valuable resources we offer for band directors: the J.W. Pepper Basic Library. Every concert band selection featured in this video has earned a place in the Basic Library because directors have consistently chosen them over the past five years. This track record of success proves these selections can work beautifully for your band today!
Tripwire
JaRod Hall – FJH Music Company Inc
A spy attempts to infiltrate the defenses of an arch enemy. Take caution though, for every step can trigger an alarm because tripwires are everywhere! This clever work is unlike anything out there and offers some extraordinary colors. From the sneaky sound of the beginning melody to the loud and raucous rips that follow later in the work, this is an incredible standout piece for any concert!
Starts at 1:10
The Dragon Lord
Randall D. Standridge – Randall Standridge Music, LLC
This aggressive work for young ensembles includes pulsating rhythms, bombastic percussion, and optional sound effects. Additional teaching materials such as full ensemble chromatic exercises and a short descriptive story are included as well. Careful attention to range and scoring make this an outstanding selection for developing performers.
Starts at 2:23
Kalos Eidos
Carol Brittin Chambers – Excelcia Music Publishing, LLC
This is a delightfully programmatic work meant to musically portray the characteristics of a kaleidoscope. Through this great writing, you will envision colors and patterns which are masterfully represented for the modern concert band. You and your students will find much joy in putting this work together!
Starts at 3:34
A Mother’s Hymn
arr. Robert W. Smith – RWS Music Company
Simple, poignant, and beautiful, you will find this to be an artistic experience for both band and audience. Based on an old Swedish hymn also known as How Great Thou Art, it is appropriate for any concert or festival performance. This promises to be a standard in the concert band repertoire!
Starts at 4:23
Above the Line
Bryce Newton – RWS Music Company
This will be an audience favorite to open or close your next concert! Playful harmonies and lively melodic lines stand out immediately in this energetic contemporary march. The attention to scoring ensures a successful performance. A fresh and exciting march!
Starts at 5:24
Smiling after the Rain
Yukiko Nishimura – Excelcia Music Publishing, LLC
This sonorous work for concert band will stretch the musicianship of your players. Harmonically rich, the scoring is used to great effect to achieve significant moments. The heartfelt inspiration behind the piece makes it perfect for teaching expressive concepts. A great selection for your bands if you are looking to challenge them musically.
Starts at 6:19
Energy!
Adrian B. Sims – FJH Music Company Inc
This highly aggressive work is based on a combination of invigorating melodies and a relentless rhythmic drive. Musical lines weave throughout the ensemble, soaring countermelodies take center stage, and an increasingly intense final passage takes the piece to an entirely new level. Simply put, this one is full of energy!
Starts at 7:06
Castles in Europe
James Reese Europe/arr. Chandler L. Wilson -s – C L Barnhouse Company
Originally written by the first African-American bandmaster in the United States Army, Europe gained great popularity as a dance band leader, a military band leader, a recording artist, and a composer of merit. This will have toes tapping and is an enjoyable ragtime work from an American composer to be remembered!
Starts at 7:59
