Grade 2-3 Concert Band
Above The Clouds - The title of this exuberant piece couldn't be more fitting. A majestic opening makes way for a bright and brilliant theme. The joyful melody soars as the lively counterlines flow throughout. Your band and audience will both enjoy this inspirational work.
Check it out here.
Appalachian Expedition - Experience the spirit of achievement and the exhilaration of triumph with this vibrant work inspired by hiking the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia. The trail takes rigorous tolls on the body and the mind, but there is no greater feeling than taking the final steps of such a journey. A resounding tribute to the individuals who have braved the elements and have shown the dedication necessary to achieve this monumental goal.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton’s
Boundless - Being part of a greater whole - this uplifting work celebrates the bond that exists between the musicians in an ensemble and presents the positive message that by working together, our dreams and achievements are boundless. The brilliant music will surely resonate with directors and their musicians as a celebration of what great accomplishments are possible ahead.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton's
Christmas Is Here!- Christmas is Here!, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, highlights fresh treatments of some of the most celebrated Christmas favorites and will help ring in the season with good tidings for all! This stunning medley features "Joy to the World," "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," and "We Three Kings." There are three contrasting sections, starting with excitement, then a bit of mystery, and finally, a rhythmic 5/4 treatment of the "Ukrainian Bell Carol." Sure to be a perennial favorite! (4:15)
Check it out here.
Curse of The Pharaohs - Curse of the Pharaohs is an exotic-sounding piece with a distinctive style and infectious melody. Students will be immediately captivated by the mysterious-sounding introduction that will lead their imaginations to ancient Egypt. Fast driving rhythms, exotic harmonies and colorful percussion all contribute to the air of mystery and drama that lingers throughout this exceedingly appealing work.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton’s
Empire City Overture - A bold and exciting work that starts slowly and quickly moves to a faster tempo. After another slow section in the middle it comes to a dynamic and rhythmically charged ending. Clearly presented themes and complimentary percussion make this a perfect choice for your next performance!
Check it out here.
Folk Song Celebration - Folk Song Celebration features an original British style march, "Celebration March," and two revered folk songs, "The Skye Boat Song" and "Tarantella Napoletana." This masterfully scored piece will transport your audience on an exciting musical journey. Many teaching opportunities are presented including meter changes, divisi, and shifting styles. Celebration March has the traditional sound of a British march, "The Skye Boat Song," is beautifully scored and emotional, and the rousing "Tarantella Napoletana" will have your audience smiling and clapping along!
Check it out here.
Golden Celebration Overture - starts with a bold statement that depicts great pride. The lyrical, melodic style provides ample opportunity for expression and emotion. Following the majestic section, a change of tempo and texture brings excitement and energy. Opportunity and engagement for all students are paramount in this celebratory piece! This piece was commissioned in honor of the 50th anniversary of Parsippany Hills High School, NJ. (3:50)
Check it out here.
Heartbeats in Shadows - Strong melodies, tense harmonies and aggressive percussion define the nature of this dramatic piece. Starting with an air of mystery, the sounds of darkness are contrasted with bits of curious light preceding powerful statements that are soon echoing throughout the ensemble. Adding to the suspense is the haunting sound of heartbeats that pulsate throughout.
Check it out here.
High Flight - This exciting overture by Chris M. Bernotas shares a title with the poem that inspired it, High Flight. The poem by John Gillespie Magee embodies the spirit to explore and dance freely in the sky. This piece offers students many musical opportunities and challenges and is the perfect selection for a contest, concert opener, or closer. (3:50)
Check it out here.
Lion Pride - is an imaginative overture by Chris M. Bernotas and is full of majesty and pride. Beginning with a strong and dramatic statement that gives way to a bright melody, the pride of the lion shines through. A stately section represents the power of the mighty lion before returning with the spirited and exciting theme, then coming to a rhythmic and energetic conclusion. (3:32)
Check it out here.
Machine Age - From the first ticks, clicks, and clangs of the hi-hat, snare drum and brake drum, this piece moves! Relentless rhythmic drive, memorable melodic lines and unstoppable syncopation all points toward a powerful finale. Your band will love to play this!
Check it out here.
March to Nowhere - March to Nowhere, by the renowned and brilliant Czech composer Václav Nelhýbel, was originally published in 1976. This arrangement, by Chris M. Bernotas, has been scored for intermediate-level bands as the perfect vehicle to introduce students to this significant and historic composer. The work's unique character and intriguing musical lines and textures will captivate your students. (3:40)
Check it out here.
Moonrise and Dance - Like a great movie theme, this piece has excitement, beauty, rhythmic syncopation, and is a fun piece to play. The first trumpet's highest note in one place is a B, with an optional lower F. Otherwise, the highest note for the trumpet is G
Check it out here.
On the Cape - Inspired by Delaware's beautiful Cape Henlopen, this piece musically captures the playful feel of a family vacation on one of its lovely beaches. A reflective opening is followed by a light and energetic theme, including bits of the familiar sea shanty "Drunken Sailor."
Check it out here.
Pony Express - Travel back in time to when the fastest way to deliver a message was on horseback, riding across the plains, mountains and deserts. This piece has a slight "off-beat" gallop for the horseback ride and a lyrical section that is reminiscent of looking out over the vast spaciousness of the plains. But it isn't long before we're back in the saddle and racing to deliver the mail and to a most enjoyable finish!
Check it out here.
Ride Through the Valley - The fast-paced opening of Bernotas' Ride Through the Valley builds momentum, leading to a bright and tuneful main theme. A lyrical contrasting section follows featuring a warmth of colors enhanced by vibraphone and gracefully cascading arpeggiated pyramids. A brief transition leads to a return of the main theme including a key change, bringing the piece to a driving conclusion. This piece also comes in a 5-part flexible instrumentation version as part of Alfred's FLEX series.
Check out the original version here.
Check out the FLEX version here.
Ritual - An atmosphere of mystery is established from the very first with the dark sound of the timpani and an ominous flute melody. Following this, an intense drone and strong thematic material develops, building the work into an exceptionally powerful piece.
Check it out here.
Shattered -Fierce and explosive with its intensity and rhythmic drive, this work is relentless in its forward momentum and rhythmic interplay between winds and percussion. Your students will be energized and totally immersed in the strong dynamics, clear articulation, and rhythmic precision that present from the very beginning.
Check it out here.
Skydive -Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime! Take a deep breath as you musically take that first step and experience the immediate exhilaration of free fall. As you reach terminal velocity, a peaceful legato section allows the skydiver to enjoy the panoramic beauty of the scenery. The suspense and thrills then return as you pull the ripcord and come to an exuberant and triumphant touchdown.
Check it out here.
Stomp, Clap, Snap, Tango! - Using traditional rhythms associated with the tango, your band will get to take part in their own "dance" as they perform this Latin-style piece. As the title states, they will stomp, clap and snap the rhythms of a traditional improvised tango. A fun way to learn about Latin music and dance.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton’s
The Girl with the Flaxen Hair - The Girl With the Flaxen Hair (La fille aux cheveux de lin) is the eighth of Claude Debussy’s Préludes, Book I (1909-1910), for piano. It is gentle, fluid, and full of light, flowing harmonies. This colorful adaptation of one of Debussy’s best-known works will be a worthy challenge and a musically rewarding experience for all medium- and advanced-level ensembles.
Check it out here.
Check out the recording here.
This Day Forward - A bold opening leads to a bright, cheerful theme in this tuneful piece for developing band. A slower middle section offers flowing melodies before returning to the uplifting theme. This well-scored celebratory piece is an excellent selection for concert, contest or festival use.
Check it out here.
Through a Child’s Eyes - Touching and warm, you'll experience your surroundings with a different perspective after hearing this composition. Reflecting on the innocence of a child, the music will follow as they discover the world around them and introduce you to the peacefulness of a sleeping baby.
Check it out here.
Turbulence! - Settle in for a bumpy ride! Turbulence! begins with an ominous atmosphere foreshadowing the tension that lies ahead. Students will be provided with exciting, challenging parts that will help them develop their musicality. Turbulence has driving percussion, angular rhythms and an energy that doesn’t stop!
Check it out here.
Check out the recording here.
Workforce - Within any ensemble all the "workers" join together and help one another to create a magical experience. This musical construction site builds energy and excitement with all the parts working together to create the uplifting rhythmic groove and the beautiful lyric section.
Check it out here.
Check it out here.
Appalachian Expedition - Experience the spirit of achievement and the exhilaration of triumph with this vibrant work inspired by hiking the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia. The trail takes rigorous tolls on the body and the mind, but there is no greater feeling than taking the final steps of such a journey. A resounding tribute to the individuals who have braved the elements and have shown the dedication necessary to achieve this monumental goal.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton’s
Boundless - Being part of a greater whole - this uplifting work celebrates the bond that exists between the musicians in an ensemble and presents the positive message that by working together, our dreams and achievements are boundless. The brilliant music will surely resonate with directors and their musicians as a celebration of what great accomplishments are possible ahead.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton's
Christmas Is Here!- Christmas is Here!, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, highlights fresh treatments of some of the most celebrated Christmas favorites and will help ring in the season with good tidings for all! This stunning medley features "Joy to the World," "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," and "We Three Kings." There are three contrasting sections, starting with excitement, then a bit of mystery, and finally, a rhythmic 5/4 treatment of the "Ukrainian Bell Carol." Sure to be a perennial favorite! (4:15)
Check it out here.
Curse of The Pharaohs - Curse of the Pharaohs is an exotic-sounding piece with a distinctive style and infectious melody. Students will be immediately captivated by the mysterious-sounding introduction that will lead their imaginations to ancient Egypt. Fast driving rhythms, exotic harmonies and colorful percussion all contribute to the air of mystery and drama that lingers throughout this exceedingly appealing work.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton’s
Empire City Overture - A bold and exciting work that starts slowly and quickly moves to a faster tempo. After another slow section in the middle it comes to a dynamic and rhythmically charged ending. Clearly presented themes and complimentary percussion make this a perfect choice for your next performance!
Check it out here.
Folk Song Celebration - Folk Song Celebration features an original British style march, "Celebration March," and two revered folk songs, "The Skye Boat Song" and "Tarantella Napoletana." This masterfully scored piece will transport your audience on an exciting musical journey. Many teaching opportunities are presented including meter changes, divisi, and shifting styles. Celebration March has the traditional sound of a British march, "The Skye Boat Song," is beautifully scored and emotional, and the rousing "Tarantella Napoletana" will have your audience smiling and clapping along!
Check it out here.
Golden Celebration Overture - starts with a bold statement that depicts great pride. The lyrical, melodic style provides ample opportunity for expression and emotion. Following the majestic section, a change of tempo and texture brings excitement and energy. Opportunity and engagement for all students are paramount in this celebratory piece! This piece was commissioned in honor of the 50th anniversary of Parsippany Hills High School, NJ. (3:50)
Check it out here.
Heartbeats in Shadows - Strong melodies, tense harmonies and aggressive percussion define the nature of this dramatic piece. Starting with an air of mystery, the sounds of darkness are contrasted with bits of curious light preceding powerful statements that are soon echoing throughout the ensemble. Adding to the suspense is the haunting sound of heartbeats that pulsate throughout.
Check it out here.
High Flight - This exciting overture by Chris M. Bernotas shares a title with the poem that inspired it, High Flight. The poem by John Gillespie Magee embodies the spirit to explore and dance freely in the sky. This piece offers students many musical opportunities and challenges and is the perfect selection for a contest, concert opener, or closer. (3:50)
Check it out here.
Lion Pride - is an imaginative overture by Chris M. Bernotas and is full of majesty and pride. Beginning with a strong and dramatic statement that gives way to a bright melody, the pride of the lion shines through. A stately section represents the power of the mighty lion before returning with the spirited and exciting theme, then coming to a rhythmic and energetic conclusion. (3:32)
Check it out here.
Machine Age - From the first ticks, clicks, and clangs of the hi-hat, snare drum and brake drum, this piece moves! Relentless rhythmic drive, memorable melodic lines and unstoppable syncopation all points toward a powerful finale. Your band will love to play this!
Check it out here.
March to Nowhere - March to Nowhere, by the renowned and brilliant Czech composer Václav Nelhýbel, was originally published in 1976. This arrangement, by Chris M. Bernotas, has been scored for intermediate-level bands as the perfect vehicle to introduce students to this significant and historic composer. The work's unique character and intriguing musical lines and textures will captivate your students. (3:40)
Check it out here.
Moonrise and Dance - Like a great movie theme, this piece has excitement, beauty, rhythmic syncopation, and is a fun piece to play. The first trumpet's highest note in one place is a B, with an optional lower F. Otherwise, the highest note for the trumpet is G
Check it out here.
On the Cape - Inspired by Delaware's beautiful Cape Henlopen, this piece musically captures the playful feel of a family vacation on one of its lovely beaches. A reflective opening is followed by a light and energetic theme, including bits of the familiar sea shanty "Drunken Sailor."
Check it out here.
Pony Express - Travel back in time to when the fastest way to deliver a message was on horseback, riding across the plains, mountains and deserts. This piece has a slight "off-beat" gallop for the horseback ride and a lyrical section that is reminiscent of looking out over the vast spaciousness of the plains. But it isn't long before we're back in the saddle and racing to deliver the mail and to a most enjoyable finish!
Check it out here.
Ride Through the Valley - The fast-paced opening of Bernotas' Ride Through the Valley builds momentum, leading to a bright and tuneful main theme. A lyrical contrasting section follows featuring a warmth of colors enhanced by vibraphone and gracefully cascading arpeggiated pyramids. A brief transition leads to a return of the main theme including a key change, bringing the piece to a driving conclusion. This piece also comes in a 5-part flexible instrumentation version as part of Alfred's FLEX series.
Check out the original version here.
Check out the FLEX version here.
Ritual - An atmosphere of mystery is established from the very first with the dark sound of the timpani and an ominous flute melody. Following this, an intense drone and strong thematic material develops, building the work into an exceptionally powerful piece.
Check it out here.
Shattered -Fierce and explosive with its intensity and rhythmic drive, this work is relentless in its forward momentum and rhythmic interplay between winds and percussion. Your students will be energized and totally immersed in the strong dynamics, clear articulation, and rhythmic precision that present from the very beginning.
Check it out here.
Skydive -Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime! Take a deep breath as you musically take that first step and experience the immediate exhilaration of free fall. As you reach terminal velocity, a peaceful legato section allows the skydiver to enjoy the panoramic beauty of the scenery. The suspense and thrills then return as you pull the ripcord and come to an exuberant and triumphant touchdown.
Check it out here.
Stomp, Clap, Snap, Tango! - Using traditional rhythms associated with the tango, your band will get to take part in their own "dance" as they perform this Latin-style piece. As the title states, they will stomp, clap and snap the rhythms of a traditional improvised tango. A fun way to learn about Latin music and dance.
Buy/Listen at JWPepper
Buy/Listen at Stanton’s
The Girl with the Flaxen Hair - The Girl With the Flaxen Hair (La fille aux cheveux de lin) is the eighth of Claude Debussy’s Préludes, Book I (1909-1910), for piano. It is gentle, fluid, and full of light, flowing harmonies. This colorful adaptation of one of Debussy’s best-known works will be a worthy challenge and a musically rewarding experience for all medium- and advanced-level ensembles.
Check it out here.
Check out the recording here.
This Day Forward - A bold opening leads to a bright, cheerful theme in this tuneful piece for developing band. A slower middle section offers flowing melodies before returning to the uplifting theme. This well-scored celebratory piece is an excellent selection for concert, contest or festival use.
Check it out here.
Through a Child’s Eyes - Touching and warm, you'll experience your surroundings with a different perspective after hearing this composition. Reflecting on the innocence of a child, the music will follow as they discover the world around them and introduce you to the peacefulness of a sleeping baby.
Check it out here.
Turbulence! - Settle in for a bumpy ride! Turbulence! begins with an ominous atmosphere foreshadowing the tension that lies ahead. Students will be provided with exciting, challenging parts that will help them develop their musicality. Turbulence has driving percussion, angular rhythms and an energy that doesn’t stop!
Check it out here.
Check out the recording here.
Workforce - Within any ensemble all the "workers" join together and help one another to create a magical experience. This musical construction site builds energy and excitement with all the parts working together to create the uplifting rhythmic groove and the beautiful lyric section.
Check it out here.