Cielo de Oro (Golden Sky)
Carl Strommen

A pronounced Latin American flavor pervades this colorful new piece from Carl Strommen. A large and varied percussion section functions at times like an ethnic continuo and the alternation of 4/4 and 6/8 time, and suave melodic material, often doubled at the interval of a third, lends the characteristic sound of "south of the border" music to this delightful and challenging new selection. Cielo de Oro is an infectious piece both the band and its audience are certain to love.

Duration: 5'45" Key: Bb Ranges: Trumpet - High D; Horn - High A; Trombone - High G
SPS19 ($85.00; 17.50; 4.00)

The Flight of the Falcon
Robert Thurston

With a bright syncopated flourish from the trumpets, Robert Thurston's latest concert piece is off and flying. The lively opening mixes meters and introduces several key motives before the main theme appears on flutes, oboes & bells at measure 9. The subtle contrasts of straight forward common time and syncopation propel the first section through several sonorous climaxes before the slow central section ("Dreamily") introduces a lyrical, triadic theme for the clarinet. Passed around from section to section this lovely idea also achieves a warm climax, before the return to the syncopated style of the opening. Rhythms from the opening set up the introduction of a vigorous new theme by the horns, which is joined by fragments of the motives and themes from section one in a grand, richly scored climax. This is a powerful addition to the high school and college band repertoire.

Duration: 5'15" Keys: Bb, Eb, F Minor/Major Ranges: Trumpet - High A; Horn - F; Trombone - High F
SPS21 ($85.00; 17.50; 4.00)

Stars and Stripes for Christmas
John Philip Sousa and Robert E. Foster

What happens when Santa's sleigh collides with Sousa's band in full regalia? Stars and Stripes for Christmas just might be the answer. Some of the best-known tunes associated with the Christmas season (from Jingle Bells to the Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah) are introduced into The Stars and Stipes Forever with predictably lively and often amusing results. This may be the ultimate Christmas novelty number and is sure to enliven the next Christmas program of a good band with a hip sense of humor.

Duration: 3'20" Keys: Eb, Ab Ranges: Trumpet - High A; Horn - F; Trombone - High F
SPS18 ($75.00; 17.50; 4.00)

Vigor
Sean O'Loughlin

A grand gesture for the full brass section opens Sean O'Loughlin's Vigor in a bold manner. The virile fast music that follows is full of energy and purpose and quickly leads to a jaunty tune introduced by muted trumpet and piccolo. From these striking materials, O'Loughlin has crafted a beautifully put together score, whose brilliant scoring will impress any audience. The return of the bold opening chorale at the climax of Vigor brings a fine sense of accomplishment to this striking and powerful piece.

Duration: 4' Key: Eb Ranges: Trumpet - High C; Horn - High G; Trombone - High G
SPS20 ($75.00; 17.50; 4.00)

Zahal March
Yoav Talmi

A classic European-style march by a noted composer/conductor, Zahal March is the official march of the Israeli Army. Blessed with striking themes and a healthy respect for the conventions of the march form and style, this selection will be a colorful addition to any program. The opening strain (in Bb) is suave and memorable and the second strain, which features the trombones, is marcato in style and makes an effective contrast. The trio (in Eb) is livelier, and pits two contrasting ideas (legato versus staccato) against one another. This is a rousing march ideal for a sophisticated ensemble.

Duration: 3'30" Keys: Bb and Eb Ranges: Trumpet - High B; Horn - F; Trombone - High F
SPS17 ($95.00; 17.50; 4.00)