Michael Sweeney
Showing 49–72 of 97 results
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Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2.5
Lisbon (from Lincolnshire Posy)
The opening movement of Grainger’s Lincolnshire Posy is the brief yet engaging “Lisbon” and has been arranged here for young players and reduced instrumentation. Even with minor simplification and modest ranges, the character and authenticity shines through in this skilled adaptation. Dur: 1:30SKU: HL04004969 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 1
Little Red in the Hood
In the style of an overwrought melodrama, here is a descriptive “soundtrack” for the fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood. From an innocent walk in the woods, to a frightening encounter, and finally the heroic rescue, your audience will have no trouble following the story with this entertaining musical adventure. (Or you could have dramatically inclined faculty or students act it out!) Dur: 3:10SKU: HL04002997 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 2
Manteca
One of the classic examples of the Afro-Cuban style in jazz, “Manteca” endures as a true standard. Available here in a version playable by young bands, Michael Sweeney carefully simplifies the complexities of the tune while still maintaining the rhythmic drive and energetic style of the original. Enjoy great flexibility with the Easy Jazz Ensemble series! Playable with 4 saxes, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and rhythm.SKU: HL7011425 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 1.5
Moai (Song of Ancient Giants)
The giant stone statues of Easter Island (known as “Moai”) have long been a source of mystery and wonder. Using hints of Polynesian drumming and haunting ancient-sounding melodies, this intriguing work for 2nd year players evokes a feeling of exotic majesty. Dur: 3:10SKU: HL04005056 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2.5
Northland Pines
Bringing to mind the scenic majesty of the northern forests, Michael’s fresh-sounding overture for young players opens with a powerful fanfare before introducing the energetic main theme in 5/4. Carefully using repetitive patterns combined with a unique harmonic treatment and brief lyric section, this work provides musical depth in a framework that is easy to teach. (Grade 2.5) Dur: 4:00SKU: HL04003294 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 2
Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)
Arranged in a style similar to the vintage version by Buddy Rich, here is an easy jazz waltz based on this classic Beatles hit. It features strong ensemble writing along with a written or ad lib. solo for alto sax. Enjoy great flexibility with the Easy Jazz Ensemble series! Playable with 4 saxes, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and rhythm.SKU: HL8050057 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
On the Edge of Tomorrow
Written for a middle school band in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the composer states that “although commissioned prior to the catastrophic flood of 2008 that affected so many people including students and teachers, the work took on new meaning as a way to cope with disaster and have faith in a better tomorrow.” Displaying a range of emotions from anger to reflection to hope, this is a magnificently powerful overture for young players. Dur: 4:45 (Grade 2)SKU: HL04002877 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 3
Out of Nowhere
Featuring a medium swing feel on a familiar standard, this effectively written chart for young players includes nicely paced variety between the brass and saxes. A flexible solo section leaves room for trumpet (or trombone) and alto (or tenor).SKU: HL7011553 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 4
Passages
The term “passage” can variously describe a “passageway” of travel, a musical phrase, or perhaps the soul’s moving on from this world to the next. In this work for band, dark and rich sonorities are contrasted with a lilting, Celtic-flavored melody as it alternates with striking “passages” from the brass. Later, an alto sax soloist adds a haunting quality to the mood followed by a return of the ethnic drumming heard earlier. This unique and rewarding composition is beautifully paced and skillfully orchestrated using every section of the band. Dur: 7:00 (Grade 4)SKU: HL04002871 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2.5
Prelude and Pursuit
John Barnes Chance composed his landmark work for band, Incantation and Dance, in 1960 while in residence at the high school in Greensboro, North Carolina. Commissioned by the Union County (NC) Honor Band, Prelude and Pursuit pays tribute to this important composition and its North Carolina connection. A haunting chant-like theme played by the clarinets sets the tone for the slow section. Similar to Chance’s work, the fast section begins with percussion instruments introducing thematic elements later picked up and developed by the winds. Intensifying rhythmic elements, as well as carefully controlled random playing effects, contribute to an overall sense of excitement and anticipation. Themes are woven throughout various sections of the band before the opening chant motif makes a brief dramatic appearance near the end. A great teaching tool for young players, Prelude and Pursuit also provides a rewarding performance experience. Dur: 4:50SKU: HL04003185 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
Quad City Stomp
Combine an aggressive percussion undercurrent along with powerful riffs, clapping, stomping, and other noisy effects, and you have a marvelous extravaganza sure to be enjoyed by players and listeners alike! A slower, yet emotionally-charged middle section provides contrast before a Celtic-influenced final segment drives to a rhythmic and dynamic finish. Dur: 5:10SKU: HL04002635 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2.5
River of Hope (Based on “Down to the River to Pray”)
The centerpiece of this work for band is the memorable Appalachian folk hymn “Down to the River to Pray,” which was featured in the 2000 film O Brother, Where Art Thou? Interspersed with this melody is a faster original theme that provides a complementary yet contrasting tone to the emotional statements of the folk hymn. Richly scored and flowingly beautiful. Dur: 4:25 (Grade 2-1/2)SKU: HL04002863 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
River Rendezvous (for Multi-Level Combined Bands)
River Rendezvous conceived as a work for multi-level band festivals, however it also serves as a dynamic stand-alone composition for grade 3 bands. Representing moods and scenes of the Fox River in southern Wisconsin, the two contrasting movements may be performed separately or together. The primary themes in each movement are simple enough for beginning players, and are then embellished and developed in the more advanced levels. Sure to be an exciting extravaganza for parents and students alike! Dur: c. 6:00SKU: HL04004711 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
Rock, River, Tree
Drawing inspiration from American poet Maya Angelou’s inspirational poem “On the Pulse of Morning,” this unique work for band offers challenges and rewards for young players. Using the imagery of “a rock, a river, a tree,” Angelou challenges us all to work for unity and peace. The music ranges from an energetic percussive pulse (rock) that utilizes plastic buckets played throughout the ensemble, to a flowing chorale theme (river) that’s heard near the beginning and again at the end. Throughout, the piece grows and intensifies (tree) as various musical elements are combined and varied. Dramatic music with important cross-curricular opportunities! Dur: 4:10SKU: HL04004305 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 1.5
Rutabaga Ramble
From the opening finger snaps, bass groove, sultry sax line, and brass punches, your band is in for a treat with this one. A silky smooth middle section provides contrast before returning to the minor shuffle feel. There are plenty of solo options with written samples provided for all instruments.Enjoy great flexibility with the Discovery Jazz series! Playable with 3 saxes, 2 trumpets, 1 trombone, piano and drums; includes optional parts for flute, clarinet, F horn and tuba.SKU: HL7012081 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 4
Sawdust City Celebration
Commissioned by the Oshkosh (nickname “Sawdust City”) Area Community Band for their 25th anniversary, Sawdust City Celebration presents varied and creative settings of early American folk tunes commonly heard during Wisconsin’s pioneer days. With styles ranging from dramatic and powerful to lighthearted and lyrical, this is a rich-sounding and impressive work for the concert stage. Dur: 5:50SKU: HL04003288 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
Shorewood Overture (for Multi-level Combined Bands) Complete Set
Combining a district-wide extravaganza for players of all levels creates an exciting spectacle for parents, while providing much needed incentives for the younger players. Shorewood Overture is specifically designed to be performed by multi-level bands and, rather than the typical massed band number where everyone plays at once, this ingenious overture allows each level to be featured briefly by itself, along with sections where everyone plays together. In addition, the “Level 3” parts include cues (also in the Level 3 score) that allow the piece to be performed by a single ensemble. Dur: 4:20 Note: Level 2/Level 1 versions are not playable separatelySKU: HL04003858 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
Silverbrook
Rarely does a Grade 2 composition contain as much musical depth and variety as this powerhouse from the pen of Michael Sweeney. The impressive opening strains lead to a fast-paced ostinato accompanying an explosive melody in the trumpets. After a delicate lyric section, the fast pace returns and the piece drives to a powerful finish. Dur: 4:25 (Includes full performance CD)SKU: HL04002414 -
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Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
Song for Hope
Written as a memorial for a middle school band student, this sensitive and moving work opens with a chorale played by off-stage brass. A flowing melody stated in the low register is then developed before leading to a brief fanfare-like affirmation. The Korean folk song “You and I” is briefly quoted before returning to the off-stage brass and calm closing passage. A beautifully scored lyric piece for band. (Extra players are not required for the off-stage parts.) Dur: 4:30SKU: HL04003057 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
Southern Folk Rhapsody
Featuring some of America’s most beloved folk melodies, Michael Sweeney has crafted an emotional and satisfying work for young players. You’ll hear recurring strains of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot woven together with Wayfaring Stranger, a sensitive treatment of Steal Away, and a rousing gospel version of Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit. Rich in musicality and strong in general appeal, this will work great for contests as well as casual concerts. Dur: 4:30 (Includes Full Performance CD)SKU: HL04002391 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 1
Southwind
Composed in the 1700s, this traditional Irish ballad was a lament of homesickness by its author, and is now a tender and beloved melody appearing on countless recordings. Also known as “The Wind from the South” or “An Gaoth Aneas,” this setting for second year players provides melody for all sections of the band along with subtle and tasteful harmonic variants. Dur: 2:35SKU: HL04004214 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
Spirit of Avalon
Michael Sweeney’s newest work is characterized by powerful full band writing as well as contrasting, delicate sections with flowing melodies. As always, Michael’s writing keeps the musical interest flowing for all players, making this another work you can trust to motivate your players while teaching strong musical concepts.SKU: HL04001745
