New Independent Publications for 2025–2026
J.W. Pepper is proud to spotlight a curated selection of newly published concert band works available through My Score, Pepper’s platform for independent publishers. These compositions highlight the creativity, craftsmanship, and unique voices of composers who are shaping the future of concert band literature. Whether you’re planning your next performance or exploring fresh repertoire, we invite you to discover these thoughtfully written pieces. For even more programming ideas, browse the full My Score catalog dedicated to concert band music.
Dragonheart March for Concert Band
by Enrique Ponce
Dragonheart March delivers all the hallmarks of a classic American concert march—snappy rhythms, buoyant countermelodies, and a trio section that sings with lyrical charm. While the title evokes courage and strength, the music stays rooted in time-honored form, offering bands a chance to perform with style, precision, and pride. Perfect for concert programs, festivals, and ceremonial events, this march strikes the ideal balance between tradition and imagination—sure to become a favorite among performers and audiences alike.
A Joyous Sleigh Ride for Concert Band
by Anthony Susi
Guaranteed to delight your performers and audience alike, this rousing arrangement of Joy to the World is combined with an original American hoe-down-style tune, providing a fresh setting of this popular carol.
Aquatic Journey for Beginning Concert Band
by James Smith
The ocean is full of extraordinary creatures, from sharks and whales to jellyfish and coral. More than 50 percent of all living creatures on Earth can be found in oceans. Covering more than 70 percent of the surface of Earth, oceans are filled with wondrous life, a wide spectrum of colors, and great mystery. Dive deep into ocean life with this selection for beginner concert band.
Johnson Creek Fanfare for Concert Band
by Brian Fratto
Johnson Creek Fanfare is a bold and invigorating brass fanfare designed for advanced-intermediate concert bands. With its commanding presence and bright tonal palette, the piece opens with a triumphant flourish that immediately captures attention. The writing showcases the power and brilliance of the brass section, particularly highlighting the upper range capabilities of the ensemble—1st Trumpet reaches up to a high C, while the 1st Horn ascends to a Bb above the staff.
Winds Across the Water for Concert Band
by Erika Svanoe
Winds Across the Water imagines standing on a beach with a lighthouse jutting into view against the horizon, and the wind blowing through your hair. Featuring an introduction with large melodic leaps and expansive sounds, the piece later moves to a jaunty 6/8 tune reminiscent of sailing on open waters.
Strike the Iron! for Concert Band
by Daniel Greene
One of the most engaging challenges in writing is creating a piece of music that is both engaging to play while remaining accessible to younger musicians. Strike the Iron! is music drawn from this challenge. Inspired by stories of mythical blacksmiths, Strike the Iron! depicts the life of one such individual as they struggle and succeed in an intense and exciting craft.
Desert Winds for Concert Band
by Scott D. Johnson
Desert Winds is a spirited and uplifting concert march crafted specifically for young bands. Composer Scott D. Johnson captures the essence of a breezy desert morning with bright melodic lines, clear harmonic progressions, and a buoyant rhythmic drive that evokes motion and optimism.
Planet Dances for Concert Band
by Jon Montgomery
Intrigue, energy and harmonic tension hold the listener from start to finish! All sections have their 5/8 time in the Sun as well as beautifully connected melodic lines throughout. From the mysterious beginning and driving forces to the majestic and powerful beauty that only concert bands can provide, your group will enjoy putting this one together. Crisp percussion, driving low brass and gorgeous woodwinds make this piece something that audiences will always ask for.
Hark the Bells to the World for Concert Band
by Trenton Rhodes
The piece begins with a triumphant, fanfare-like medley that weaves together all three tunes before transitioning into direct arrangements of each in sequence. It was composed as a heartfelt tribute to the Charleston School District, honoring the warm welcome and sense of community extended by its students and staff. The composer expresses deep gratitude for the time spent there and extends best wishes to everyone involved. Although originally written with the Charleston band in mind, the work features flexible instrumentation and a moderate difficulty level, making it suitable for a wide range of ensembles.
Chasing Stars for Beginning Concert Band
by Brian Chance
“Chasing Stars” is a Grade 1 composition for the Beginning/Developing Band. A fanfare-like piece which incorporates musical ideas and elements appropriate for this grade level. Perfect for an opener for your next concert.
