Listening Journal

I've been listening to new music this summer in preparation for next year. So far, here are a few of my favorites (some old, some new). 

Concert Band

Satiric Dances (Grade 4-5) - Norman Dello Joio
There are not very many pieces like Satiric Dances that so perfectly capture a feeling. The piece oozes with ridicule and is fun for both the performers and the audience.

Allerseelen (Grade 3) - Strauss, arr. Davis
A nice arrangement of something beautiful.

Journey Through the Void (Grade 1) - Tim Fisher
At a low level of difficulty, Journey Through the Void sounds fresh and engaging.

Jazz Band

Polar Vortex (Grade 1) - Victor Lopez
I just like the cresc/decresc hook and the melody.

Li'l Darlin' (Grade 2) - Neal Hefti
Absolutely amazing, and so much harder than it sounds. I don't know if there is another chart that lays back this much, and I may have to have my band play this every week if not every day this next year.

Unit 7 (Grade 3) - Sam Jones, arr. Greg Yasinitsky
Great swing/Latin arrangement of a nice tune. Really like the soli sections for saxes and trumpets.

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