Michael Sweeney

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. 6:00

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: 4:10

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: 5:50

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 separately

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: 2:35

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.

The opening of this unique and masterful work for band places the wind players out in the audience as the listeners are surrounded by the effect of a swirling dance of celestial lights and sounds. Onstage, the percussion section introduces a driving ostinato pattern later picked up by the entire ensemble. A delicate and beautiful middle section almost suspends time as soloists provide a bluesy interaction with the rich background texture and each other. The frantic pace returns leading to a stunning chorale played by the winds while the percussion continues simultaneously at a separate tempo! A creative and magical addition to the repertoire! Dur: c. 9:30