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The Burning Walls of Leslie Gulch is a sonic postcard of one of eastern Oregon’s most striking landscapes. Towering pink and orange rhyolite cliffs rise dramatically from the canyon floor, carved by time into narrow slot canyons and jagged spires. The opening music introduces the vastness of the Gulch, while bright colors and layered textures suggest shifting light on stone. The mallet percussion often mirrors the tall, angular cliffs, adding shimmer and verticality to the soundscape.

A contrasting second theme represents the western juniper trees that dot the rugged terrain—resilient, grounded, and quietly expressive. Written in a clear sonata form, the piece unfolds through an introduction, exposition, development, and recapitulation, with a creative merging of the A and B themes before a confident coda. Together, these elements invite young performers and listeners alike to imagine standing within the “burning walls” of Leslie Gulch, surrounded by color, space, and enduring beauty.

The Burning Walls of Leslie Gulch

Concert Band Score & Parts

"Amber Waves and Fruited Plain" is a vibrant and upbeat jazz arrangement of the beloved patriotic song, "America the Beautiful." This reimagining captures the essence of the original melody while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary jazz sensibility. The arrangement showcases the versatility and skill of the jazz ensemble, featuring intricate harmonies,rhythmic interplay, and melodic improvisation.
The piece begins with a soulful introduction, setting the stage for the energetic and driving main theme. Soloists have the opportunity to shine, showcasing their creativity and technical prowess.
"Amber Waves and Fruited Plain" is a celebration of American music and culture, offering a unique and inspiring performance for audiences of all ages.

Amber Waves and Fruited Plain

Jazz Ensemble

Labyrinth of McCormick takes listeners on a journey through the vast, echoing expanse of McCormick Place, Chicago's renowned convention center. Inspired by the feeling of being lost within its sprawling hallways and repetitive architecture, this minimalistic work captures both the physical and emotional experience of navigating such an overwhelming space. Through layered textures, subtle shifts, and overlapping patterns, the piece reflects the disorientation, determination, and eventual triumph of finding one's way.

The piece begins with The Entering Maze, evoking the initial awe of the convention center's size. Sparse instrumentation and wandering melodic fragments mirror the vastness and uncertainty of the journey ahead. Repeating patterns in mallet percussion and woodwinds suggest the unchanging corridors, while distant tones in the brass convey the faint promise of a destination yet unseen.

In The Search, layers of ostinatos across the ensemble create a sense of movement, with rhythmic and harmonic shifts portraying the futile attempt to find direction. Frustration builds in the brass and percussion, culminating in The Panic,where fragmented motifs and a dense, accelerating texture evoke a spiraling sense of chaos. Echoing cymbals and sudden bursts of sound depict moments of dead ends and retraced steps.

The piece resolves in The Way Out, where clarity emerges from the chaos. The wandering theme returns, now confident and complete, as the layers thin and harmonies brighten. The music gradually resolves into a serene and consonant conclusion, representing the relief of finding direction and the satisfaction of emerging from the labyrinth. Labyrinth of McCormick is a sonic exploration of getting lost and finding yourself in the midst of disorientation.

Labyrinth of McCormick

Dance of the Cascades is a vibrant and energetic piece that captures the majesty and movement of the Cascade Mountains north of Boise, Idaho. The music evokes the imagery of cascading waterfalls and rushing streams, with flowing melodic lines and rhythmic vitality bringing the landscape to life. The piece is carefully crafted for young bands, balancing accessibility with a sense of adventure and grandeur.

The orchestration highlights the diverse textures of the concert band, with sparkling woodwind arpeggios representing the shimmering water and rich brass harmonies evoking the strength and beauty of the mountains. Percussion elements, including glockenspiel, tambourine, and hi-hat, provide rhythmic drive and sparkle, adding to the imagery of rushing streams and cascading falls.

Designed with young musicians in mind, Dance of the Cascades offers opportunities for expressive playing and technical development. The dynamic contrasts and varied orchestration invite performers to explore an increased range of their instruments, culminating in a beautiful and reflective ending that reflects the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cascades.

Dance of the Cascades

Inspired by the vast, untamed beauty of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, Fire in the Frank captures the drama and urgency of a wildfire as seen through the eyes of forest animals. This piece takes listeners on an evocative journey, from the quiet stillness of nature to the escalating chaos of flames racing across the landscape.

Structured in an ABAB' form, the piece opens with a jarring melody, evoking the fear of the fire and the watchful presence of wildlife. The intensity quickly builds as fiery brass and angry woodwind lines mimic the blaze's rapid advance.

With its vivid imagery and dynamic contrasts, Fire in the Frank is a musical exploration of nature's resilience in the face of destruction. Designed for Grade 2 concert bands, it offers performers an opportunity to express drama and emotion while exploring accessible rhythms, flowing melodies, and exciting percussion textures.

Fire in the Frank

I. Winter: Cold, with dreadful wind, snow, and ice. Relentless, for
  months it seems. Mother Nature at her cruelest.
    
    II. Spring: Frost gives way to new life. Cold, but with life emerging. A
  dance between summer and winter.
    
    III. Summer: The joy of the year. Heat, children playing in the warmth of
  the sun. Drums of marching band camp fill the air. Intensity of the summer
  sun beats down.
    
    IV: Fall: The warmth of the colors. Fall foliage fills the trees. The
  holidays approaching, the days gradually shortening. Winter is on the wind.

The Four Seasons Suite

"Crimson Skies of August" is a bold and evocative work that captures the imagery of a fiery wildfire transforming the landscape. The piece begins with a brooding introduction, its ominous harmonies and suspenseful textures setting the stage for the drama to come. The opening suggests the stillness before a firestorm, as the rich timbres of low brass and woodwinds paint a vivid and mysterious scene.

The overture unfolds in sonata form, with its first theme bursting forth as an energetic, angular melody in F minor. This theme conveys a sense of urgency and determination, driven by rhythmic intensity and colorful orchestration. In contrast, the lyrical second theme, introduced in the relative major, offers a moment of tranquility and reflection, evoking the beauty of the crimson sky. As the development section twists and transforms these themes, the piece ventures into new tonal landscapes, building tension and anticipation before triumphantly returning to its original ideas.

In the coda, the music reaches a dramatic and powerful conclusion. The first theme is transformed into a soaring declaration, as the ensemble comes together to create a vibrant and unified sound. Crimson Skies of August is a celebration of contrasts: light and dark, tranquility and energy, power and delicacy. It invites listeners to imagine a vast and ever-changing sky, filled with the beauty and mystery of nature's fleeting moments.

Crimson Skies of August

Shadows of the Rockies is a musical journey inspired by the grandeur and mystery of the Rocky Mountains at twilight. Set in the luminous key of E-flat major, this piece captures the interplay of light and shadow as the sun dips below the peaks, leaving the rugged landscape bathed in vibrant hues. The opening theme evokes a sense of awe, with flowing melodies that suggest the vastness of the mountain range.

As the journey progresses, unexpected tonal shifts provide moments of intrigue and adventure. These colorful modulations mirror the ever-changing play of light on the mountainsides, reflecting the depth and complexity of the Rockies' natural beauty. Each shift offers a new perspective, challenging developing players to explore dynamic contrasts and expressive phrasing.

Designed with care for emerging musicians, Shadows of the Rockies strikes a balance between accessibility and sophistication. The piece invites performers to connect with the imagery of the mountains while developing their technical and musical artistry. Its rich harmonies and evocative themes promise to transport both players and audiences to a place of breathtaking beauty and reflection.

Shadows of the Rockies

"Smack" is a high-octane musical journey that plunges the listener into a whirlwind of sound. Set at a breakneck "Presto" tempo, this piece demands precision from the ensemble. The driving rhythms and bold harmonies create a sense of urgency and intensity, propelling the music forward with relentless energy.

Composed in the dramatic key of G minor, "Smack" explores the darker side of the musical palette. The forceful dynamics and percussive accents underscore the piece's raw power and raw energy. As the music builds to a climactic frenzy, it leaves the audience breathless and exhilarated.

"Smack" is a thrilling testament to the expressive capabilities of the concert band, showcasing its ability to deliver a high-impact performance that leaves a lasting impression.

Smack

"Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.) of the Narwhals" is a whimsical musical journey inspired by the enigmatic creatures of the Arctic. This composition delves into the world of these majestic marine mammals, capturing their playful spirit, their mysterious depths, and their unique acoustic repertoire.

The piece opens with a lively and energetic theme, representing the narwhals' playful nature and their acrobatic displays in the icy waters. As the music progresses, the mood shifts to a more contemplative and mystical tone, reflecting the serene beauty of the Arctic landscape. At this point, the composition introduces a captivating sonic exploration of the narwhals' underwater vocalizations. The intriguing clicks, squeals, and sonar sounds are meticulously rendered into a mesmerizing soundscape, inviting the listener to immerse themselves in the underwater world of these extraordinary creatures.

The final section of the piece returns to the lively and energetic theme, celebrating the narwhals' resilience and adaptability in their harsh environment. The music concludes with a triumphant coda, leaving the listener with a sense of wonder and admiration for these magnificent creatures.

G.O.A.T. of the Narwhals

The majestic Pioneer Mountains of central Idaho stand as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dared to carve trails through their rugged terrain. "Pioneer Trailblazer's Fanfare" is a musical tribute to the dedicated crews who braved harsh conditions and formidable challenges to build pathways that connected communities and opened new frontiers. This work honors their resilience, ingenuity, and the enduring legacy of their efforts.

The piece opens with bold, energetic brass motifs that capture the determination of the trailblazers as they tackled the formidable wilderness. Woodwind lines interweave with bright percussion accents, evoking the sounds of tools ringing out against stone and the rhythm of progress. A reflective middle section offers a moment of pause, painting a picture of the serene landscapes these crews cherished and protected as they worked.

As the music builds to its triumphant conclusion, the ensemble celebrates the unity and perseverance that defined the trailblazers' spirit. The uplifting final measures remind us of the profound impact their labor had on shaping the region and connecting its people. Through "Pioneer Trailblazer's Fanfare," the band invites listeners to honor these unsung heroes and the trails that continue to inspire exploration and adventure.

Pioneer Trailblazer's Fanfare

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"Rizzin' With The Reeds" is a light-hearted, funky clarinet solo designed especially for students finishing their first year of playing and stepping confidently into their second. With playful rhythms, catchy grooves, and a touch of swagger, this piece lets young clarinetists explore character and style without overwhelming technical demands.

The solo features syncopated lines, simple articulations, and accessible fingerings that give beginners a chance to shine while introducing them to elements of jazz and funk phrasing. Whether performed at a school concert, solo festival, or just for fun, "Rizzin' With The Reeds" brings a fresh, toe-tapping energy that celebrates the clarinet in all its funky glory.

Rizzin' With The Reeds

Soprano Clarinet Solo

This piece, set in the somber glow of D minor, evokes the awe-inspiring beauty of the Idaho Dark Sky Reserve nestled in the Lemhi Valley, shadowed by the majestic Mount Borah. The opening, a haunting dialogue between clarinets, alto saxophone, and vibraphone, mirrors the hushed whispers of the night sky. As the music unfolds, it captures the gradual emergence of the celestial spectacle. Under the canopy of a new moon, a blanket of stars descends, their ethereal light painting the landscape with an otherworldly glow. The shimmering vibraphone and the rhythmic pulse of the percussion instruments evoke the celestial dance, while the optional piano adds a touch of introspective reflection, capturing the profound sense of wonder that envelops the soul beneath such a magnificent display.

Midway through the piece, a captivating solo emerges, featuring a vibrant array of mallet percussion instruments. This section symbolizes the brilliance of the Milky Way, a breathtaking expanse of stars that seems to stretch endlessly across the heavens. The music swells and subsides, mirroring the ebb and flow of cosmic energy, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of sound and emotion.

As the piece draws to a close, the music gradually fades, leaving behind a lingering sense of wonder and tranquility. The listener is left to contemplate the vastness of the universe and the profound connection between humanity and the cosmos, a connection that is so vividly experienced beneath the star-studded sky of the Idaho Dark Sky Reserve.

Lemhi Twilight Serenade

One Life to Make a Difference is a deeply personal and reverent tribute to President Jimmy Carterstatesman, humanitarian, and champion of peace. This work, composed for tenor voice and concert band, reflects the spirit of a man whose faith, courage, and compassion touched millions across the globe. With lyrics penned by Staff Sergeant Jesse L. Claus (25th Army Band, U.S. Army), the piece pays homage to Carter's enduring legacy through a tapestry of musical themes, sacred hymns, and emotional reflection.

The opening movement, Imagine a Better World, begins with a noble and reverent tone, capturing Carter's visionary optimism. A subtle yet poignant quote from "Amazing Grace" reminds the listener of his humble faith and unshakable hope in humanity. The music gently invites us into a world of compassion and service, embodying Carter's belief in the power of grace and goodness.

The second section, Faith in Action, transitions into a rhythmically driven and energetic soundscape, symbolizing Carter's tireless dedication to peacebuilding, public service, and advocacy for the underserved. This is a portrait of a man in motionsteadfast in purpose, unwavering in principle. The musical language speaks with determination and momentum, portraying the effort and grit behind a life committed to justice.

For Those In Need, the penultimate section, offers a more introspective mood, with the beloved "Navy Hymn" woven delicately as a countermelodyan ode to Carter's naval service and his lifelong humanitarian mission. This section evokes a sense of global empathy and quiet dignity, as the music tenderly reaches outward to those most vulnerable, embodying Carter's lifelong mission of peace and care.

The piece concludes with a powerful emotional climax, uniting all major themes beneath the soaring strains of "Blest Be the Tie That Binds." This final section affirms the idea that the bonds of love, service, and faith can indeed change the world. One Life to Make a Difference is not only a tribute to President Carter's remarkable life but also a reminder of the lasting impact a single life, grounded in service, can have on the world.

One Life To Make A Difference

Knell of Erebus takes its title from Mount Erebus, the active volcano that pierces the icy heart of Antarctica. However, in this
piece, Erebus is not a symbol of destruction, but of transformation. The "knell" here is not a death knell, but a tolling bell that announces
the end of an era  the era of darkness. The fanfare opens with a dark and brooding soundscape, conjuring the vastness and coldness of the
Antarctic night. Yet,there is a sense of anticipation within the darkness, a hint of the fiery power that lies dormant beneath the ice. As the
music unfolds, the brass erupts with a fanfare that is both powerful and triumphant. The darkness is not vanquished with brute force, but
with a relentless, building energy that suggests the inevitable rise of the sun.

Knell of Erebus

This symphony is a deeply personal work, dedicated to my family. Each movement represents a different member of my family, and the music reflects their unique personalities and experiences. The composition is intended to be a powerful and emotional journey, exploring themes of love, loss, joy, and hope. Symphony No. 4 is a deeply personal and emotionally charged work that explores the complexities of human experience. It is a testament to the power of music to express the deepest emotions and connect with the listener on a profound level.

Symphony No. 4

"Bitterroot Trail March" is a spirited and energetic piece that evokes the rugged beauty and adventurous spirit of the Bitterroot Mountains in Northern Idaho. The march begins with a bold and driving introduction, establishing a sense of forward motion and anticipation. The first strain, characterized by a strong, rhythmic motif, captures the rugged terrain and the determination of the pioneers who traversed these challenging trails.

The second strain introduces a more lyrical and melodic theme, reflecting the breathtaking scenery and the sense of awe inspired by the majestic mountains. The breakup strain builds intensity, culminating in a powerful and exciting climax. The trio offers a contrasting and more reflective mood, perhaps with a slower tempo and a more lyrical melody, suggesting moments of quiet contemplation amidst the grandeur of the wilderness.

Finally, the march concludes with a triumphant and exhilarating finish, celebrating the spirit of adventure and the enduring legacy of the Bitterroot Trail.

Bitterroot Trail March

"Memories" is a reflective string orchestra piece designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of experiences and emotions that shape our lives, this composition aims to transport listeners back to cherished moments and rekindle the warmth of fond recollections.

Memories

String Orchestra Score & Parts

For Young Band.

"Lost River Harmonies" is a musical journey through the majestic Lost River Mountain Range in Central Idaho. The piece is written in Bb major/g minor and follows an ABCA form.

The first section, A, is a gentle and flowing melody that evokes the serenity of the mountain streams and forests. The second section, B, introduces a more dramatic and energetic theme, representing the power and grandeur of the mountains. Section C should stand out distinctly as tall as the Lost River Range rises above the valley floor. The final section, A, returns to the peaceful and reflective mood of the first section, bringing the piece to a tranquil and satisfying conclusion.

This piece is designed to be accessible to young concert band students while still providing opportunities for musical expression and technical development. It is a celebration of the beauty and majesty of the Lost River Mountain Range, and a reminder of the power of music to transport us to other worlds.

Lost River Harmonies

Mountains in the Mist is a contemplative and evocative piece that invites the listener to experience the beauty and serenity of nature. The music is both lyrical and powerful, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Mountains in the Mist

Low Brass Quartet

Global Sections - CORE [DO NOT TOUCH]*

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