Program Notes
Read about the pieces on the Winter 2025 Concerts:
PRINCIPAL
Fugue in G minor “The Little” BWV 578, J.S. Bach arr. Daniel J. Leavitt
Orawa”, Wojciech Kilar
Kilar is a Polish Composer best known for his film score to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. “Orawa” for string orchestra was completed in 1986. It’s title refers to the Carpathian Region of Poland near the Slovakia border.
Finlandia, Jean Sibelius
Written in 1899, Finlandia is a tone poem composed in response to increasing censorship against the Finnish people by the Russian Empire. It has become one of the most popular nationalistic pieces and serves as an unoffical anthem of Finland.
PHILHARMONIC
Egmont Overture, Op. 84, Ludwig van Beethoven
In 1810, Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) was commissioned by the Burgtheater, in Vienna, to write incidental music to J.W. Goethe’s play, Egmont (1788). Beethoven was uncharacteristically elated to compose this work, as Goethe was his favorite poet and writer. The story of the play takes place during the Eighty Years War and follows the Dutch warrior, Egmont and his defiant battle against Spanish invaders, lead by the Duke of Alba. The play and the music, were also a political statement, as Vienna at the time was under foreign occupation. The strong chords in the beginning represent the hero, which are then followed by a slow sarabande (Spanish dance), a nod to the Spanish occupation. As the sarabande continues it emerges, “to an Allegro that itself gathers steadily, like the impetus of revolt” (Swafford). As the themes fight each other through the Allegro, the battle ends with the death of Egmont. After a brief silence, the measures of mourning spark the turn of the tide and the joyous ending, which Goethe dubbed the, “Victory Symphony.”
VIRTUOSI WOODWINDS AND BRASS
The Incredibles (From Walt Disney Pictures’ THE INCREDIBLES – A Pixar Film), Michael Giacchino, arr. Paul Murtha
This arrangement is sure to dazzle and energize your Sunday! The wind and brass members of Virtuosi are so excited to team up for this jazz-inspired, adventurous tune.
Selections from Black Panther, Ludwig Göransson, arr. By Johnnie Vinson
As a comic book legend, Black Panther has been at the forefront of Marvel and superhero entertainment for decades. The most recent cinematic adaption of this iconic character was fortunately paired with a highly captivating and moving score. Johnnie Vinson has conceptualized this score into a wonderful journey of highlights built to take you into the futuristic and spiritual land of Wakanda.
“Cumbia y Congo” from Danzas de Panama, William Grant Still
Written in 1948, Danzas de Panama is a piece for strings based on Panamanian folk tunes. “Music for the native dances of Panama has been notated so infrequently that it is still unknown to people outside of the country itself. It was Narciso Garay who first called the attention of Elisabeth Waldo to it and she, in turn, interested the American composer, William Grant Still, in developing it for concert use…Mr. Still has further departed from traditional practices by making an attempt to approximate the sounds of native instruments, giving the music an unusually interestinf quality.”
VIRTUOSI FULL ORCHESTRA
“Habanera” from Carmen, Georges Bizet, arr. Richard Meyer
Georges Bizet’s Carmen is one of the most popular and frequently performed operas ever written. The Habanera from Act 1 is among the best known of all operatic arias. Its infectious melody and colorful Spanish atmosphere have delighted audiences around the world. Sung by the heroine, Carmen, an employee in a tobacco factory, it is a provocative reflection on the untamable nature of love.
La Belle Hélène Overture, Jacques Offenbach, arr. Douglas Stroud
La Belle Hélène is a comedic opera that parodies the story of Helen of Troy’s elopement with Paris, which set off the Trojan War according to Homer’s Illiad. One of the top French operetta composers of his time, Offenbach premiered the work in Paris on December 17th, 1864. Fast paced and excitable, this arrangement covers main themes of the opera and showcase Offenbach’s ability to write singable melodies and develop motives.
SINFONIA
February: Carnival (from Four Seasons), Piotr Ilych Tchaikovsky, arr. Steven Brook
A festive and joyous romp with the master! Calling for bravura as well as lyrical playing, this arrangement is sure to please both audience and performer alike. The interplay between the instruments provides moments for each section to shine and will help take ensemble skills to the next level. Tchaikovsky’s rich musical vocabulary offers an excellent opportunity to develop chromatic fingering skills and enhance note-reading abilities. A challenging yet quite attainable piece.
The Barber Of Seville (Overture), Gioachino Rossini, arr. James “Red” McLeod
Rossini’s “Barber Of Seville” is one of the most famous and beloved operas of all time. One of the most recognizable overtures ever written! Rossini’s 1816 comic opera is known for its cheery melodies, simple plot, and humorous characters – all captured in this spirited arrangement for string orchestra. The delightful theme frequently used in cartoons, film, and commercials is sure to bring a smile to players and audiences alike!
Adagio (From Symphony No. 2, Op. 27), Sergei Rachmaninoff, arr. Robert Longfield
The Adagio movement of Rachmaninoff’s second symphony is considered by many to be one of most beautiful melodies ever written. A continuing favorite in today’s concert halls (as well as film and TV), it remains one of the most enduring themes of the 20th-century symphonic repertoire.
Danny Rocks ( A Celtic Explosion), Traditional, arr. Bob Phillips
A trio of terrific tunes! An air, a jig, and a reel done in a Celtic rock style! The plaintive sounds of Danny Boy, also known as Londonderry Air starts things off. Next, the Swallowtail jig begins with an intense rhythmic pattern where 6/8 clashes with 3/4 and what sounds like a Bodhran (Irish hand drum) is actually half the cello section using their instruments for rhythm! Following that rollicking jig is a very suspenseful 20-bar transition leading to the very popular reel, Drowsy Maggie. The energy level rises throughout and the rock beat intensifies making this a very fun piece!
STRING
Allegro in D for Strings from Concerto for Two Trumpets, Antonio Vivaldi, arr. Steven Frackenpohl
Allegro in D is an orchestration for string orchestra from Vivaldi’s Concerto in D for Two Trumpets. Thouroughout the movement the melody is antiphonally passed between the first and second violin sections while the viola, cello and bass sections provide bouncing rhythmic eighth and quarter note patterns.
Mythos, Soon Hee Newbold
Written for the Ohio Music Educator’s Association District 13 Honors Orchestra, Mythos is composed in three sections – Once Upon a Time; Fantasy and Final Victory are performed without pause. With unique harmonies and driving melodies, the music tells the story and takes the listeners on a musical journey that is limited only by imagination.
Fantasia for Strings, Elliot A. Del Borgo
Elliot del Boro was born in Port Chester, NY served as the Department Chair of Music Theory, History and Composition at the Crane School of Music in Potsdam, NY. A well know composer, he wrote the music for the closing ceremony of the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, NY. Fantasia for Strings is a vigorous piece. Listen for the hushed muted sounds of the violins and violas in the contrasting middle section before the rousing finale.
SAXOPHONE
Nola, Felix Arndt, arr. Jim Clark, Kenneth Abeling
Nola was composed by Felix Arndt in 1915 for his wife as an engagement gift. It is an early example of the style known as “novelty ragtime”.
“Morning Mood” from Peer Gynt, Op. 23, Edvard Grieg, arr. Jim Clark
Written in 1875 as incidental music to Henrik Ibsen’s play “Peer Gynt”, but many of us recognize the theme from cartoons such as The Bugs Bunny Show, The Simpsons, or Family Guy.
The Lazy Song, Bruno Mars, arr. Jim Clark
From Bruno Mars’ debut album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” (2010), The Lazy Song is a catchy anthem to laziness, in a reggae-pop style.
JAZZ I
Recorda Me, Joe Henderson, arr. Kris Berg
The band opens the set with an exciting arrangement by Kris Berg of this up-tempo version of this Joe Henderson tune, “Recorda Me (Remember Me).
St. Louis Blues, W.C. Handy, arr. John Denton
W. C. Handy’s composition, “St. Louis Blues,” defined the form of the 12-bar blues. This arrangement by John Denton really swings.
Here’s To Life
We hope you enjoy this lovely ballad that features our vocalist, Victoria.
My Foolish Heart, Ned Washington and Victor, arr. Dave Rivello
Our lead alto Sumanu Pinjala sizzles on this gorgeous ballad, “My Foolish Heart.”
Povo, Freddie Hubbard, arr. Eric Morales
We end the set with this modal tune by Freddie Hubbard. Thanks for listening.
JAZZ II
Choose The Blues, Matt Morey
After our first concert, the Jazz II Orchestra added 7 new members! We are a bona fide big band now! Mr. Brookes chose two easy jazz ensemble charts for this group to prepare for today’s concert. This first piece is an excellent blues chart, with great lines for all the horns and a grooving rhythm section.
Ulterior Motive, Doug Beach
Ulterior Motive is similarly catchy, and gives students the opportunity to open up solos in C dorian. In Jazz II we continue to work on reading skills, jazz style, and improvisation.
PERCUSSION
The British Grenadiers
This arrangement has the performers playing rudimental percussion on bass drum, timpani, snare drum, and tenor drum in a modern arrangement of the parts for the traditional piece The British Grenadiers in contrast to the style of drumming they would normally be using in an orchestral setting.
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Read about the Jack Lawrence Fall 2024 Concert:
PRINCIPAL
Symphony No. 9 in e minor “From the New World” Op. 95, Antonin Dvorak
Dvorak traveled to the US in 1892, soon after the Statue of Liberty was erected in New York Harbor in 1886. Dvorak must have seen the Statue upon arrival in the harbor and his music may have been influenced by it. From Britannica, “Written while Dvořák was living and working in New York City, the symphony purportedly incorporated the composer’s reflections on his American setting.”
PHILHARMONIC
Symphony in B minor No. 8, The Unfinished Symphony”, Movement 1, Franz Schubert
Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 in B minor, commonly known as the Unfinished Symphony, is one of classical music’s great enigmas. Composed in 1822, it contains only two completed movements: a brooding Allegro moderato and a lyrical Andante con moto. Despite its incomplete status, the symphony is celebrated for its profound beauty, emotional depth, and innovative orchestration, marking a significant step in Schubert’s symphonic writing. The first movement of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony draws listeners into a world of mystery and emotion. It opens quietly with a shadowy theme in the low strings that feels almost like a whisper, creating an air of suspense. Soon, the theme moves through the orchestra, picking up depth and intensity. In contrast, a gentler melody emerges, led by the cellos and oboes, offering a touch of warmth and nostalgia.
Valse Triste op. 44, Jean Sibelius
Sibelius’s Valse Triste (Sad Waltz) is a haunting, delicate piece that seems to sway between dream and reality. Originally composed in 1903 as part of the incidental music for his brother-in-law’s play Kuolema (Death), it quickly became popular as a standalone work for its striking, bittersweet beauty.
The waltz begins softly, almost like a whisper, with a melancholy theme that drifts through the strings. As it builds, the music becomes more intense and spirited, as if moving between moments of hope and sorrow. The tempo ebbs and flows, creating a feeling of longing and nostalgia, and ultimately fades back into silence, leaving an emotional impression long after it ends.
With its haunting melody and subtle shifts in mood, Valse triste captures a sense of fleeting beauty and fragility, making it one of Sibelius’s most evocative and beloved short works.
Slavonic Dance op 46 No. 8, Antonín Dvořák
Dvořák’s Slavonic Dance in G minor, Op. 46, No. 8 is a spirited and lively piece, filled with the energy of Czech folk traditions. Inspired by the furiant, a fast Bohemian dance, the music alternates between fiery rhythms and graceful, lyrical sections. The opening theme bursts with excitement, while the middle section introduces a more flowing melody, adding contrast and charm. As it returns to its lively pace, the dance builds to a thrilling conclusion, showcasing Dvořák’s talent for blending folk-inspired melodies with classical style. It’s a joyful, exuberant piece that’s impossible not to enjoy!
VIRTUOSI WINDS
Danny Boy, Traditional Irish, arr. Warren Barker
The lyrics to “Danny Boy” by Frederic Weathery were set to the tune of “Londonderry Air” in 1913 after initially being set to a different, lesser known tune. Ever since then,”Danny Boy” has been recognizable as a prominent Irish song and has been performed around the world.
VIRTUOSI BRASS
Amparito Roca, Jaime Texidor arr. James Curnow
A staple in the wind band repertoire, Amparito Roca is a march written by Spanish composer Jaime Teixidor in 1925. He was inspired by one of his young piano students and named the piece after them. It is known as a pasodoble or “double step” march used for Spanish military purposes. As marches have always been at the core of wind band pedagogy, I thought it would be a broadening experience for the students to hear how marches from different cultures can sound in contrast to the likes of a Sousa march style that they have become accustomed to in their respective public school ensembles.
VIRTUOSI STRINGS
Elementa, Soon Hee Newbold
Commissioned by the Russell Independent Schools Orchestra, Elementa is inspired by the city of Russell in Kentucky and the four elements: Air, Earth, Fire, and Water. The first movement symbolizes the element of air along with a train ride through the landscape of Russell. Pizzicato and harmonics represent the train whistle and “popping” sound of coal burning. The listener can hop on the train and see the city pass by and also soar overhead seeing the train from a bird’s eye view. The second movement resembles an Appalachian lullaby and represents the element of Earth. On one side, you have the flowing Ohio River in all of its glory and on the other, the dense forests of Appalachia. Many students forego the mall or movies just to sit next to the river and take in its beauty. The third movement captures the elements of fire and water meeting to create steam, and the kinetic energy of a small town that is still thriving. -Soon Hee Newbold
VIRTUOSI FULL ORCHESTRA
Hornpipe (from Water Music), George Frideric Handel, arr. Richard Meyer
In the early 1700s, London high society delighted in evening pleasure trips on the Rover Thames. These leisurely trips were often accompanied by a floating orchestra—a whole barge-load of musicians playing “water serenades. Handel composed at least two (probably three or more) suites of “water music” for such festive occasions. This vigorous tune is one of his most famous! -Richard Meyer
“All or Nothing at All”, Jack Lawrence and Arthur Altman, arr. Britney Alcine
Written in 1939, “All or Nothing at All” is a song with music composed by Arthur Altman and lyrics written by Jack Lawrence. The song was recorded by Frank Sinatra in that same year, topping the Billboard Charts for 21 weeks in 1943. The song became a jazz standard, recorded by artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, and Freddie Hubbard.
Symphony No. 1, fourth movement, Johannes Brahms, arr. Vernon F. Leidig
The First Symphony occupied Brahms for fourteen years, with the completion of the work in September 1876 when Brahms was forty-three years old! Today, this symphony’s broad lines and magnificent lyrical passages have made it one of the world’s most popular symphonies. The much-discussed last movement begins with a tensely dramatic introduction followed by a melodic call for the French horn. The strings then play a singing-like melody that is later repeated in the woodwinds, clearly referencing the final movement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. The movement ends with a lively and triumphant statement from the orchestra.
SINFONIA
Concerto Alla Rustica, Antonio Vivaldi arr. by Sandra Dackow
The Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi has composed an enormous number of pieces in all the genres for woodwinds and all the string instruments, particularly the violin. One of the most known works is “Four Seasons”, Four Concertos for violin and Orchestra. “Sinfonia Alla Rustica” is another Vivaldi’s famous concerto for strings. It’s a concerto that our orchestra will love to play! From the opening 9/8 “Presto” to the “Adagio” inner movement to the brisk conclusion, this one is great string writing and one of the hits of the Baroque era!
Fantasy On A Japanese Folk Song, Bryan Balmages
The haunting Sakura melody moves through stunning and beautiful transformations in this musical fantasy before finally coming to rest. Tonal centers switch between minor and major as traditional melodies intertwine with thoughtful countermelodies and contemporary harmonies. Simply gorgeous piece that help our young musicians to grow in their musicianship, and in the ensemble skills!
Symphony No. 8, Antonin Dvorak arr. by Todd Parrish
The Czech Composer Antonin Dvořák composed and orchestrated the symphony within the two-and-a-half-month period from 26 August to 8 November 1889 at his summer resort in Bohemia. The score was composed on the occasion of his admission to Prague Academy and dedicated “To the Bohemian Academy of Emperor Franz Joseph for the Encouragement of Arts and Literature, in thanks for my election.” Dvořák conducted the premiere in Prague on 2 February 1890.
The fourth movement, known for its soaring melodies and energetic finish, is the perfect choice for our performance. Our young musicians will experience the powerful beauty of this orchestral work in this string arrangement. While studying this masterpiece, our players worked to develop shifting skills, bow technique and expression.
A Halloween Thriller, J. S. Bach. M. Mussorgsky Rod Temperton arr. by Ralph Ford
This medley features two great spooky classical themes and a modern classic: Toccata and Fugue in D Minor by J.S. Bach; A Night on Bald Mountain by Modest Mussorgsky and Michael Jackson’s Thriller.
STRING
John Ryan’s Polka, Traditional Irish, arranged by Caryn Wiegand Neidhold
While John Ryan’s Polka has achieved fame from its appearance in the movie Titanic, the history of this engaging melody is missing from general knowledge. Some think it is an English version of a polka written by Irishman Sean Ryan, but it has other monikers, including “The Armagh.” Irish session players know this polka as a “dum dum” polka because the guitar typically plays two quick D Major chords on the first two beats of the song. Despite its past, John Ryan’s Polka is now part of the popular culture with over sixty recordings and is well-loved by millions.
Ó Abre Alas (Brazilian Carnival March), Chiquinha Gonzaga, arranged by Deborah Baker Monday
(Francisca) Chiquinha Gonzaga (Brazil, 1847-1935) left her mark in Brazilian culture as a respected composer, conductor, and pianist. She was the first female conductor in Brazil, and as a composer, whe wrote over 200 compositions. Her compositional approach combined European classical music styles with African rhythms. She was attracted to a special genre of music called “choro,” with its origins going back to the late 1800s in Rio de Janeiro, and that remained an influence in her concert programming and her writing. Choro is characterized as virtuosic, vibrant, and cheerful, with catchy rhythms…… ……….. Ó Abre Alas (Open Wings) was inspired by marching rhythms of paraders during a Brazilian carnival and Gonzaga originally created it as a carnival march for voices and keyboard. Composed in 1899, it became her most popular work and remains deeply incorporated into Brazilian culture.
SAXOPHONE
Colonel Bogey March, Comp. Lt. F.J.Rickets AKA Kenneth J. Alford arr. Kenneth Ableing
Colonel Bogey March is a British March. Americans are most familiar with it for being in the movie “The Bridge Over the River Kwai”. As early as the 19th century, golfers adopted the name “Colonel Bogey” as an imaginary opponent, and “bogey” is now a golfing term for “one over par”.
Tico-Tico no Fubá, Comp. Zequinha de Abreu arr. Kenneth Ableing/Jim Clark
Tico-Tico no Fubá is a Brazilian song written in 1917. Notable performances are by Carmen Miranda in the 1947 Groucho Marx film Copacabana, and the Andrews Sisters’ 1943 recording with English-language lyrics by Ervin Drake.
What The World Needs Now, Comp. Burt Bacharach arr. Jim Clark
This popular song with music by Burt Bacharach and lyrics by Hal David, was originally offered to Dionne Warwick, who turned it down. Jackie DeShannon, however agreed to record it and in 1965 “What The World Needs Now” was released and became a hit. Later, Warwick changed her mind and covered the song (as did many others). An uplifting anthem, “What The World Needs Now” has been performed in more than 220 films and TV shows.
JAZZ I
Sticks, by Nat Adderly
This fast boogaloo was a big crossover hit in the early ‘sixties.
Red Clay, by Freddie Hubbard
Trumpeter Freddie Hubbard wrote and played this driving modal tune.
Don’t Know Why, by Norah Jones and Jesse Harris
Norah Jones won a Grammy award for her rendition of this self-written hit.
Perdido, by Juan Tizol and Duke Ellington
Written by Juan Tizol and made famous by the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Perdido was an early Latin sensation.
Strike Up The Band, by George and Ira Gershwin
Who doesn’t tap a foot or snap fingers at the sound of this classic song by the Brothers Gershwin.
JAZZ II
Rock On, Jim Snidero, Arranged by Jazz 2
While this ensemble usually plays “Big Band” music, we have shifted gears for this season and are learning to work as a large “Jazz Combo.” As a jazz educator I have new challenges and also new freedoms to bring this type of group to the stage. In Rock On, we have a fun chart written by Jim Snidero, where we all learn to solo in an extended blues form.
Equinox, John Coltrane, Arr. by Jazz 2
Equinox is a minor blues, another great opportunity for learning to improvise. The entire band learned how to walk a bass line during rehearsals, how to select the right notes to harmonically support the chord progression and maintain a steady groove. Our rendition of Equinox also features a student-composed soli section following the improvised solos.
Basie’s Blues, Jim Snidero, Arranged by Jazz 2
Through Basie’s Blues we made sure everyone was comfortable soloing on a B-flat blues. We hope you enjoy the Jazz 2 set!
STEEL PAN FUTURE
We Go Together, Warren Casey and Jim Jacobs arr. John Willmarth
We Go Together, which is a classic from the movie Grease adapted for steel band playing in a Calypso style was challenging with all the syncopation, and we rose to the occasion. Hope you enjoy!
STEEL PAN JUNIOR
Maracas Bay, John Willmarth
My good friend and composer John Wilmarth wrote Maracas Bay with the intent to play in the style of Soca from Trinidad. The ensemble had so much fun putting together this exciting piece.
STEEL PAN ALL STARS
Silver Steel Sauce, John Mobilio
Silver Steel Sauce written by the bass player from Silver Steel John Mobilio. It was written to challenge the level of each section separately and also then bridge all of the different sections of the ensemble together. You will enjoy the driving Latin stylings of this piece
PERCUSSION
Fanfare For Tambourines, John Alfieri
While most people are familiar with only the tambourine tap, and shake techniques, this piece was written to utilize the many sound possibilities of the tambourine. It features both the audible and visual qualities of the instrument in the composition.
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Read about the pieces on the Spring 2024 Concerts.
PHILHARMONIC
Cantilever, Gidong Kim
Cantilever is an architectural terminology that refers to a long projecting beam or girder fixed at only one end, used in bridge construction. Every building is resistant to gravity. Among them, cantilevers show the will of resistance in the most elegant and resolute way. The appearance of the structure, which is supported by a foot on the ground but still trying to stay afloat, inspired me to think that it is like an individual’s life. Life, too, is a continuous collection of struggles to keep from collapsing. But in the meantime, we constantly strive to fly towards our goal. Perhaps that is why the cantilever looks like the wings of a building.
Once Upon a Spring, Konstantin Soukhovetski
Once Upon a Spring (2023) is Konstantin Soukhovetski’s first symphonic poem. It is conceived to represent the literal and metaphorical Spring—a moment of awakening and youthful vigor, where emotions run high, and many are experienced for the first time. The emotional ‘chiaroscuro’ is accentuated by predominantly major/minor modality and sudden shifts of tone and color. Constructed in A-B-A form, the opening theme bursts like fresh air, full of hope and energy. Juxtaposed with a darker, more melancholic B-section, the A returns in a minor mode, in the inversion. Has something happened to our protagonist, or is it just a cloud temporarily obscuring the light? It is in the ears of the beholder.
Ouvertüre C-moll, Op. 62 “Coriolan”, Ludwig van Beethoven
The Coriolan Overture (Ouvertüre zu Coriolan), Op. 62, is a composition written by Ludwig van Beethoven in 1807 for Heinrich Joseph von Collin’s 1804 tragedy Coriolan. The structure and themes of the overture follow the play very generally. The main C minor theme represents Coriolanus’ resolve and war-like tendencies, while the more tender E-flat major theme represents the pleadings of his mother to desist. Coriolanus eventually gives in to tenderness, but since he cannot turn back having led an army of his former enemies to Rome’s gates, he kills himself.
VIRTUOSI
Academic Festival Overture, Op. 80, Johannes Brahms
Brahms composed his Academic Festival Overture in 1880 on the occasion of receiving an honorary doctorate in music from the then University of Breslau. The piece was first performed in 1881. Brahms described the work as a “rollicking potpourri of student songs,” featuring four songs that were well known to German college students.
Suite from Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda
Hamilton is a musical about the life of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. In 2016, it was nominated for a record-setting 16 Tony Awards, winning 11 (including Best Musical), and was also the recipient of the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album and the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Experience the beauty and excitement of this amazing musical! This suite features themes from “You’ll Be Back”, “Helpless”, “My Shot”, “Dear Theodosia”, “It’s Quiet Uptown”, and “One Last Time”.
Millenium, Richard Meyer
Winner of the 1998 N.S.O.A. composition contest, this contemporary-sounding overture is extremely powerful and full of emotion from beginning to end. After a foreboding introduction, the heroic main theme is introduced by the brass section in unison, accompanied by the entire orchestra in a percussive, marcato style. A lyrical subordinate theme of extreme beauty follows, first stated by unison cellos, then picked up by the entire orchestra. The third and final section is a wild and energetic march, pitting brass against woodwinds and strings, leading into a final, majestic restatement of the main theme. Richard Meyer’s colorful and imaginative scoring features every section of the symphony orchestra, resulting in a wonderfully mature-sounding, yet playable, “tour de force” for the student orchestra.
SINFONIA
Italian Symphony No. 4, Mvt. 1, Felix Mendelssohn
The bright, sunny disposition of Italy is evident in this arrangement of the first movement of Mendelssohn’s “Symphony No. 4,” “The Italian Symphony.” Mendelssohn was a master of writing for string orchestra and this arrangement presents the major themes of the first movement in an edited version sure to keep the interest of your intermediate or advanced high school orchestra. This is a worthwhile challenge.
Perseus, Soon Hee Newbold
In this piece we will take a journey with the legendary hero Perseus as he slays the snake-haired Medusa and rescues the princess Andromeda! From the opening rhythmic figures to the soaring melodies, this dynamic and stunning work brings us into a whirlwind of adventure.
March of the Resistance (From “Star Wars”: The Force Awakens), John Williams
From the blockbuster film “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” this distinctive march theme gives, a terrific concert work that features skilled contrapuntal and fugal-style writing. A challenging yet fun experience that mixes Baroque and 21st-century styles with the power and drama of Star Wars.
Radetzky March, Johann Strauss (Vater)
This arrangement of this famous march retains all the charm of the original. A European style buoyant and stylish march that’s one of the most popular works from the classical world.
STRING
Overture to “Lucio Silla”, W.A. Mozart
Mozart composed the full-length serious Italian opera Lucio Silla when he was only sixteen. It is remarkable not only that such a young man was composing operas, but also that money was forthcoming from individuals and groups to have them produced. The opera depicts the story of Lucius Cornelius Sulla, a soldier and dictator of ancient Rome. The overture is actually a miniature symphony in three movements, only the first of which serves as the basis for this arrangement. The mood of this first movement is bright and cheerful, and, as was the custom of the period, does not in any way relate to the serious nature of the drama which follows.
MacPherson’s Lament (A Scottish Air), arr. Dean Marshall & Bob Phillips
Here’s a delightful Scottish air arranged by Dean Marshall, the music director of the world famous fiddle group “Barrage,” and by Bob Phillips. Legend has it that MacPherson went to his death playing this hauntingly beautiful tune on his fiddle. Beginning with the cellos and basses, the melody is passed around throughout the orchestra while continuing with a variety of accompaniment figures that build in intensity.
Music from Pirates of the Caribbean, Klaus Bedelt
This medley from the hit movies includes The Medallion Calls, Blood Ritual and The Black Pearl.
WIND ORCHESTRA
Into the Clouds! Richard L. Saucedo
We are opening our program with an exciting fanfare that features each section of the group. “Into the Clouds” is the first work this year that uses individual parts for each instrument- celebrating wonderful playing ability across all of the sections in the ensemble.
Themes from The Planets, Gustav Holst
A timeless fixture in the classical music repertoire, The Planets feature many iconic themes that describe some of the world’s greatest wonders. This arrangement of the masterwork gives young artists an opportunity to bring to life some of music’s greatest melodic material at an accessible level while paying appropriate respects to the original classic!
SAXOPHONE
Struttin’ With Some Barbecue, Lil Hardin Armstrong, arr. Jim Clark
This tango was written in 1935 by Alfredo Le Pera & Carlos Gardel. The phrase “Por Una Cabeza” translates to “by a head,” a horse-racing term which means winning by a narrow margin.
Havana, Carmen Cabello, arr. Jim Clark
The working title for this Beatles hit, written by Paul McCartney in 1965, was “Scrambled Eggs” – until Paul worked out the lyrics for the tune! The original arrangement is very spare – just Paul’s vocal, acoustic guitar, and a string quartet arranged by George Martin.
Sweet Georgia Brown, Ben Bernie & Maceo Pinkard, arr. Jim Clark & Abeling
Sweet Georgia Brown has been recorded by many notable artists such as Cab Calloway, Django Reinhardt, Oscar Peterson and many more. It is most familiar to audiences as the theme song of the Harlem Globetrotters basketball team.
JAZZ I
Pick Up the Pieces, Ball, Duncan, Gorrie, Stuart, McIntosh & McIntyre
This 1974 hit by the Average White Band may not seem like jazz, but the groove is deep and hard. Hope you enjoy it!!
In a Sentimental Mood, Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington remains the highest of musical royalty, and this beautiful ballad is testament to his style, grace, and passion.
A Night in Tunisia, Dizzy Gillespie & Frank Paparelli
As musicians and composers searched for new sounds and unique harmonic structures, hoping to keep their music fresh, the music of Africa was a natural source of inspritation.
All of Me, Seymour Simons & Gerald Marks
A swinging Basie-like arrangement of this classic, featuring our vocalist.
Big Swing Face, William O. Potts
A major hit for the Buddy Rich band.
JAZZ II
Backburner, Carl Strommen
This is a great blues shuffle with a lot of attitude! It has been fun developing the swing style within this band – and this piece shows off their technique. It is also a great opportunity to work on soloing over a blues form in the key of F.
Angel Eyes, Earl Brent & Matt Dennis
This is a gorgeous ballad that features Ricky on alto saxophone. It is nice to give GCTYO students the opportunity to perform a ballad because they have the tone quality and the control to make the harmonies really come alive!
Grooved Pavement, Victor Lopez
Our final piece is a funky straight-eighth groove song that is just really fun to play! This will feature soloists testing out their B-flat blues riffs in a straight groove as opposed to swinging. Enjoy!
PERCUSSION
Flat Baroque, Thomas L. Davis
Flat Baroque is a mallet feature by Thomas L. Davis which uses a baroque melodic style applied to swing. This combination of new and old creates a playful melody and also gives space feature each section of the ensemble.
STEEL PAN FUTURE STARS
Groovy Steel Pan, Jim Royle
Groovy Steel Pan was a piece I was inspired to write during my surgical recovery back in February. My goal was to have a Rock-Funky feel as we move around the steel pan.
We’ve Got the Beat, The Go-Gos
We Got the Beat by the Go-Gos was a smash hit at all 80’s dance parties and is just fun to perform!
STEEL PAN JUNIOR STARS
Get It While It’s Hot, Brad Shores
Get It While It’s Hot is a fun Trinidadian-inspired calypso that has the steel band working on stacked harmonies in unison and shifting the melody between the lead pans, double seconds and the guitars.
Clocks, Coldplay
Clocks by Coldplay, which is known for their anthem rock writing, has us stretch out on the pans in the key of Ab Major that sounds wonderful!
STEEL PAN ALL STARS
Cantina Band, John Williams
Cantina Band, composed by the incomparable John Williams for the first Stars Wars movie, has a 1920’s Rag time feel. Conor Glynn is also performing on violin.
I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends, The Beatles
With a Little Help from My Friends sounds wonderful on steel pan with a swinging triplet Jazz feel.
De Do Do Do, The Police
De Do Do Do by the Police became famous in the 80’s for their blending of Reggae and Ska with Rock stylings.
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