Catalog

This energetic march is set in a moderately brisk 6/8 meter and features flexible instrumentation, making it adaptable to the unique needs of conductors and the available ensemble. The wind parts primarily focus on accessible rhythms, with most passages no shorter than eighth notes, while a recurring dotted eighth, sixteenth, eighth-note motif adds rhythmic character. The percussion section drives the momentum, with timpani, snare, and bass drum providing a strong rhythmic foundation. A standout moment occurs at measure 85, where the backbeat accent shifts from the snare drum to the timpani and bass drum, creating an engaging textural change. For added flexibility, the timpani part is optional.

This four-piece set, drawn from Bartók’s collection of easy piano works, brings his timeless artistry to Grade 2 concert bands. These pieces feature a captivating blend of Hungarian folk melodies and Bartók’s own original tunes. The modal tonalities and unique harmonic structures characteristic of Eastern European music lend these pieces an exotic charm, making them both engaging and educational. Perfectly suited for developing ensembles, this arrangement offers a delightful addition to your Grade 2 repertoire, providing an opportunity to explore Bartók’s distinctive musical style and the rich traditions of Hungarian folk music.

A lyrical and evocative composition for Grade 2 concert band, commissioned by a consortium of schools in 2018. Inspired by the breathtaking geography of the Pacific Northwest, this piece takes its name from a poem by Orcas Island poet Jill McCabe Johnson. With semi-exposed moments that challenge and showcase young musicians, this work provides a rewarding opportunity for growth and expression. The connection to nature and the natural world will captivate both per-formers and audiences, making it a memorable addition to your concert program.

The Anemoi Suite draws inspiration from the wind gods of ancient Greek mythology, whose powers shaped the cardinal directions and the seasons. These deities embodied the full spectrum of nature’s moods, from thunderous storms to tranquil serenity, from frenetic energy to the soothing flow of mountain streams. Each movement of the suite vividly portrays one of the four primary wind gods: Boreas (North), Zephyros (West), Notos (South), and Euros (East). With its evocative themes and dynamic contrasts, this suite captures the essence of these mythical winds. Each movement is also available as a standalone piece, offering flexibility for programming and performance.

Ataraxia is a Grade 3.5 concert band fantasia commissioned in honor of Jack Knight, a high school junior with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Opening with a powerful brass chorale, the piece weaves through syncopated rhythms, bold modulations, dynamic percussion, and sectional independence, culminating in a triumphant statement of Jack’s Theme and a unison finale celebrating his resilient spirit. The title, meaning “equanimity,” reflects Jack’s courage and the Knight family’s pursuit of peace. With its emotional depth and dramatic energy, Ataraxia is an impactful choice for a concert opener.

August Rising is a deeply lyrical and heartfelt composition for Grade 3.5 concert band, crafted to captivate both performers and audiences. Its rich, flowing melodies evoke a profound sense of contentment, joy, love, and peace, providing an ideal opportunity for ensembles to explore expressive phrasing, nuanced dynamics, and emotional depth. Band directors will value how the piece strikes a balance between challenge and accessibility, making it a rewarding experience for students. Composed as a celebration of love and devotion, August Rising was written in honor of my wife on our 25th wedding anniversary, imbuing the work with a personal and intimate significance.

Boreas was the god of the cold, fierce north wind in Greek mythology, bringing winter’s chill and wielding a strong, tempestuous temper. Ancient depictions often showed him as an old man with wild, shaggy hair, holding a conch shell in his hands. The music captures his formidable nature, opening with dark, resonant blasts reminiscent of a foghorn—warning of approaching storms, fog, and biting cold. A swirling, restless motif introduced in this section recurs throughout, even in the calmer, reflective middle passage. The horns and trombones powerfully embody Boreas’ strength and drive, propelling the piece to an electrifying conclusion. Boreas is the commanding first movement of The Anemoi Suite.

Boreas was the god of the cold, fierce north wind in Greek mythology, bringing winter’s chill and wielding a strong, tempestuous temper. Ancient depictions often showed him as an old man with wild, shaggy hair, holding a conch shell in his hands. The music captures his formidable nature, opening with dark, resonant blasts reminiscent of a foghorn—warning of approaching storms, fog, and biting cold. A swirling, restless motif introduced in this section recurs throughout, even in the calmer, reflective middle passage. The horns and trombones powerfully embody Boreas’ strength and drive, propelling the piece to an electrifying conclusion. Boreas is the commanding first movement of The Anemoi Suite.

Golden Slumbers Kiss Your Eyes is a tender lullaby and heartfelt tribute, written to celebrate the arrival of a former teacher’s baby while honoring the profound impact he had as a mentor, professor, and conductor. The piece is structured in rondo form and features three distinct themes. The primary lullaby theme, built on a simple four-note motive, is first introduced by the flutes, accompanied by the band singing a soft “ooh.” This theme ebbs and flows like gentle ocean waves, growing in beauty and range with each iteration. The climactic third theme is intricately crafted from the names of those for whom the piece is dedicated, adding a deeply personal touch. The work concludes with two increasingly serene statements of the lullaby, bringing it to a peaceful and poignant close.

Notos, the god of the south wind in Greek mythology, brings the late-summer rains and thunderstorms. Often depicted pouring water from a vase or as a playful youth, Notos embodies both the gentle and unpredictable qualities of summer’s end. This third movement of The Anemoi Suite captures his essence through a sense of constant motion in the accompaniment, evoking the flow of water. The music begins with a soft trickle, grows into a frenzied surge, and then recedes to calm. The motion is passed seamlessly between sections and instrumental parts, creating an engaging interplay. Notos’ theme, first presented by the alto saxophones, is gentle and rolling, yet youthful surprises in the harmonies and melodic shifts add excitement. The movement climaxes in a massive late-summer thunderstorm before subsiding, offering a vivid portrayal of this dynamic wind god.

Polaris features a sweeping cinematic theme paired with the rhythmic energy and intensity of a contemporary film or game score. This Grade 3 work captures the listener’s imagination with its dynamic contrasts and dramatic pacing. The haunting melody of the internal section is surrounded by delicate harmonies that breathe a sense of relief before returning to the powerful main theme. Each section of the ensemble takes turns presenting the theme, contributing to the piece’s forward momentum with driving rhythms and compelling textures. Polaris offers an exciting and evocative musical journey that will captivate both performers and audiences alike.

This energetic and concise piece combines a stormy 7/4 march with a powerful resolution in a dramatic 4/4 ending. Commissioned to celebrate the life of a thoughtful young man with a love for books, deep thinking, and philosophical conversations, this Grade 3 work serves as an excellent introduction to asymmetrical meters. Its dynamic contrasts and compelling rhythms provide both a meaningful tribute and an engaging challenge for developing musicians.

Zephyros, the god of the West Wind and herald of spring, is often depicted as a handsome, winged youth, embodying both gentleness and the untamed power of spring storms. His theme is a graceful dance in 3/4 time, capturing the lightness and renewal of the season. A contrasting internal section features shifting harmonies and changing meters, evoking the dramatic energy of spring storms that breathe life into the world. The movement concludes with a radiant statement of the theme, winding down to a serene and peaceful resolution. Zephyros is the enchanting second movement of The Anemoi Suite.

Arrival of the Tuatha de Danann is a mesmerizing composition that transports listeners to the mystical shores of ancient Ireland, where the legendary Tuatha de Danann make their ethereal arrival. Like ghostly ships emerging from the mist, the music unfolds with haunting melodies in-spired by Celtic traditions, evoking the magic and wonder of Irish folklore. The rhythmic drive of Irish percussion instruments, including the bodhran and spoons, adds authenticity and energy, while chromatic modulations enhance the sense of unfolding drama. Capturing the essence of the Tuatha de Danann—a mythical race of artisans, poets, and warriors—this piece creates an unforgettable journey through ancient, otherworldly landscapes, captivating performers and audiences alike.

Magnificat is the perfect grand finale for schools that bring together all their music students—choir, band, and strings—for a festive holiday concert. This exhilarating composition showcases the collective talents of every performer on stage, delivering a vibrant blend of energy, drama, and heartfelt lyricism. With its spirited character and moments of exquisite beauty,  Magnificat creates a powerful and memorable experience, celebrating the joy of the season and the unifying power of music. While string parts are included to involve all students, the arrangement can also be performed successfully without them. For added flexibility, a symphonic orchestra version with reduced wind and brass parts is available, making this piece an ideal choice for schools that stage their entire music program in one unforgettable performance.

The Sandhill Fanfare is a jubilant and energetic concert opener, celebrating the natural beauty of the open plains and the vibrant life it sustains—both animals and people. Set in a brisk 12/8 meter, this piece is infused with syncopated rhythms that create an exhilarating sense of motion. Two primary rhythmic patterns drive the music: the first, introduced by the low brass, horns, and saxophones, serves as a bold foundation, recurring throughout in brass and tutti interludes. The second, introduced by the woodwinds, weaves a dynamic rhythmic counterpoint, generating a lively and engaging interplay between sections. The Sandhill Fanfare is a thrilling tribute to the majesty of the plains and an invigorating start to any program.

Well is a fantasia on the beloved hymn tune “It Is Well With My Soul,” born from an improvisatory exploration of its motives and melodic structures. The piece weaves a journey of reflection and transformation, building to a powerful climax before seamlessly introducing another cherished hymn tune, “The Old 100th.” This moment of reverence is followed by a brief, unadorned statement of the original hymn’s refrain, closing the piece with quiet poignancy and profound simplicity. Well offers a deeply moving experience, blending tradition with fresh interpretive depth.

The Wexford Carol is a cherished Irish Christmas carol, with origins tracing back to the 15th or 16th century, though some sources suggest its melody may date as far back as the 12th century. This arrangement breathes new life into the timeless carol through lush harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and vibrant orchestration, creating a rich and evocative musical experience. Perfect for holiday concerts, The Wexford Carol will captivate both performers and audiences with its beauty and charm, making it a standout piece in any program.

Fragrant is a musical meditation inspired by the story of the woman with the alabaster jar in Luke 7, focusing on the evocative qualities of perfume. Perfume fills a room, expansive and enveloping, given as a precious gift. It seduces with its allure, inviting intimacy and connection. Similarly, music shares these qualities, drawing listeners in with its complexity, beauty, and depth. This piece seeks to reflect these parallels, blending moments of simplicity and introspection with passages of exuberant energy and joy. The music also explores the dualities of remorse and repentance balanced with hope and celebration. Structured in four main sections, Fragrant moves from dark-ness to light, capturing a journey of transformation and renewal, much like the narrative it draws from.

Gather the Courageous is a vibrant and celebratory composition commissioned by the Lincoln Community Concert Band for their 25th-anniversary concert, honoring the legacy of founder Jack Snider. Opening with a bold, march-like fanfare, the piece introduces a central four-note motive that unifies the work and symbolizes Jack’s enduring vision. Triumphant brass chorales reflect unity and camaraderie, energetic woodwind runs add vitality and playfulness, and driving percussion rhythms bring intensity and momentum. With its rousing conclusion, this dynamic piece makes an excellent concert closer, capturing the adventurous spirit and shared passion of the band while offering a powerful tribute to 25 years of musical excellence and community.

Lightens the Dark Clouds, Which He Treads Upon is a meditation on the journey toward illumination. This evocative piece features layered textures that ebb and flow like waves on a beach, brought to life through vibrant orchestration. A few simple thematic ideas form the foundation of the work, including a recurring chaconne-style bass line that underpins much of the harmonic development in later sections. The music is structured in distinct sections, each contributing to the dramatic arc of the illumination process. While rhythmically straightforward, the shifting tonal centers and chromatic movement present an engaging challenge for ensemble intonation, encouraging precision and unity among performers. Lightens is a deeply expressive work that balances simplicity with complexity, offering a rewarding experience for both players and audiences.

Lightens the Dark Clouds, Which He Treads Upon is a meditation on the journey toward illumination. This evocative piece features layered textures that ebb and flow like waves on a beach, brought to life through vibrant orchestration. A few simple thematic ideas form the foundation of the work, including a recurring chaconne-style bass line that underpins much of the harmonic development in later sections. The music is structured in distinct sections, each contributing to the dramatic arc of the illumination process. While rhythmically straightforward, the shifting tonal centers and chromatic movement present an engaging challenge for ensemble intonation, encouraging precision and unity among performers. Lightens is a deeply expressive work that balances simplicity with complexity, offering a rewarding experience for both players and audiences.

This lush and captivating arrangement of a traditional Irish Christmas carol brings a touch of elegance and warmth to your holiday concert program. Its rich harmonies and engaging textures make it an ideal centerpiece, adding a moment of serene beauty to balance the festive energy of your performance.

Polaris features a sweeping cinematic theme paired with the rhythmic energy and intensity of a contemporary film or game score. This Grade 3 work captures the listener’s imagination with its dynamic contrasts and dramatic pacing. The haunting melody of the internal section is surrounded by delicate harmonies that breathe a sense of relief before returning to the powerful main theme. Each section of the ensemble takes turns presenting the theme, contributing to the piece’s forward momentum with driving rhythms and compelling textures. Polaris offers an exciting and evocative musical journey that will captivate both performers and audiences alike.

August Rising is a deeply lyrical and heartfelt composition for Grade 3.5 string ensemble, crafted to captivate both performers and audiences. Its rich, flowing melodies evoke a profound sense of contentment, joy, love, and peace, providing an ideal opportunity for ensembles to explore expressive phrasing, nuanced dynamics, and emotional depth. Band directors will value how the piece strikes a balance between challenge and accessibility, making it a rewarding experience for stud-ents. Composed as a celebration of love and devotion, August Rising was written in honor of my wife on our 25th wedding anniversary, imbuing the work with a personal and intimate significance.

That Which Was From the Beginning is a thrilling and fast-paced setting of 1 John 1:1–4 for SATB chorus and piano. This dynamic piece challenges both singers and ensemble with its energetic rhythms and intricate harmonies, while captivating audiences with its vibrant and engaging style. Perfect as a concert opener or a powerful closer, this composition leaves a lasting impression and is sure to bring audiences to their feet. Performers will be inspired by its intensity and beauty, making it a favorite for choirs and audiences alike.

The Wexford Carol is a cherished Irish Christmas carol, with origins tracing back to the 15th or 16th century, though some sources suggest its melody may date as far back as the 12th century. This arrangement breathes new life into the timeless carol through lush harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and vibrant orchestration, creating a rich and evocative musical experience. Perfect for holiday concerts, The Wexford Carol will captivate both performers and audiences with its beauty and charm, making it a standout piece in any program. 

Boundary Layer is a poignant and uplifting orchestral work commissioned by Chase The Music in honor of Colton Whisler, a young boy with a deep love for aviation. Raised around planes—his grandparents manage a small-town airport, and his father is a commercial 747 and helicopter pilot—Colton has always felt the need to fly. Diagnosed with Parameningeal Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) at age four in 2018, Colton’s journey inspired this piece, which celebrates his resilience and soaring spirit. The title refers to the aeronautical term for the barrier between unmixed layers of air, symbolizing Colton’s battle with cancer and his hope as he transitions through challenges. Boundary Layer captures his love of flight and his determination to rise above, leaving audiences inspired by his remarkable story.