Chris M. Bernotas

A Hanukkah Festival is a medley of three traditional Hanukkah songs, “Sevivon,” “Maoz Tzur,” and “Hanukkah.” “Sevivon” has a dramatic melody and is written with a variety of accompaniment leading to a brief, but impressive, clarinet cadenza that leads into “Maoz Tzur.” This traditional piece is scored with full, rich voicings along with the beautiful melody. “Hanukkah” is the festival of lights and the last section of the piece. It is a bright playful march with an exciting conclusion. A Hanukkah Festival is filled with memorable tunes that students and audiences will enjoy while paying homage to this important holiday. (5:17)

A tuneful way to introduce students to the lyrical style and rollicking feel of traditional Scottish/Irish music. The “Air” is the melody from Gilderoy and is set with a contemporary harmonic palette that concludes with an exciting climax before transitioning to the jig. “The Jig of Slurs” is a traditional Irish dance with a melody and feel that is infectious! (2:30) “Air and Jig” correlates to Book 2, Level 2 of Sound Innovations for Concert Band.

The Atomic Clock is the most accurate clock in the world. Challenge your students to be the most accurate performers by keeping a steady pulse! Energy and excitement are created while using only six notes by incorporating interesting melodic and harmonic tension and release. (1:55) Correlates to Sound Innovations for Concert Band Book 1, Level 2.

“Dancing Kites” is a gentle piece that will float around your performance hall. With a light, memorable melody and rich harmonies, this delightful composition exposes your students to musical subtleties and nuance. This is a perfect programming choice for students developing their abilities to perform in a lyrical style. (2:00) Correlates to Book 1, level 5.

This is a rocking, fun piece that directors can utilize to teach students to play with a steady and strong beat. It has a bluesy-rock melody, groove accompaniment, and—of course—cowbell! This piece can be a worthwhile vehicle for students to develop understanding of eighth note subdivisions, articulations, dynamics, and phrasing in a fun way. (2:10)

Beginning with an unresolved emotion and motive, “Finding a Way” travels through many emotions looking for a way to find resolution and comfort, conveying an uplifting and hopeful spirit that ultimately finds peace. When healing has had a chance to occur, sadness and sorrow can become replaced with delight and excitement of our memories. The piece concludes with a restatement of the opening, questioning motive, but this time with the question answered. (4:15)

Watch your ensemble spring to life in this fun and engaging arrangement of the traditional tune “Pop Goes the Weasel,” called “Pop Goes the Band.” Each section of the band stands up to perform their part of the melody and gets a moment to shine. Sure to be a hit with your beginning band! Skillfully arranged by Chris M. Bernotas. (1:50) Correlates to Book 1, level 4.