Michael Sweeney
Showing 121–144 of 147 results
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Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 4
Swamp Rabbit Stomp
Commissioned by the 2015 South Carolina All-State Junior Band and written to celebrate the natural scenic beauty of that state’s famed Swamp Rabbit Trail, Michael Sweeney’s Swamp Rabbit Stomp is a joyous romp of rhythm and harmony. Exploring layers of sounds as well as an expanded role for the percussion section, this work also calls for a middle section where all members of the band perform with egg shakers. A substantial work, but with a dash of fun! Dur: 7:15SKU: HL04004490 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 1.5
Sweet Georgia Brown
Although known primarily as the theme for the famed Harlem Globetrotters, this familiar standard has remained popular through the years with recordings by countless jazz artists. Here’s a fun version for young players featuring an infectious groove, melody in all parts, and a flexible solo section with sample written solos for all players.The Discovery Jazz Series features arrangements written for full band, playable with 3 saxes, 2 tpts., 1 tbn., rhythm section. Each arrangement includes optional parts for flute, clarinet, F horn and tuba and full length recordings available for each arrangement.SKU: HL07013726 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 1.5
Take the “A” Train
Billy Strayhorn’s iconic jazz standard, recorded by Duke Ellington, is skillfully adapted in this easy version. From the trademark introduction, saxes on the main theme, and short written or ad lib. solos, this will sound great even with young players.The Discovery Jazz Series features arrangements written for full band, playable with 3 saxes, 2 tpts., 1 tbn., rhythm section. Each arrangement includes optional parts for flute, clarinet, F horn and tuba and full length recordings available for each arrangement.SKU: HL07013724 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 1.5
Tenor Madness
In this riff-based jazz standard, Michael Sweeney simplifies the figures just a touch to make it more playable by beginning groups, but authentic enough that it still really swings! A great introduction to Sonny Rollins, and with flexible solo opportunities using the blues scale.SKU: HL07013244 -
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Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2.5
The Lost Lady Found (from Lincolnshire Posy)
The final movement of Percy Grainger’s masterwork Lincolnshire Posy is arranged here for younger bands with reduced instrumentation. Similar to his earlier adaptation of “Horkstow Grange”, Michael Sweeney carefully maintains the structural and harmonic integrity of the original while providing an authentic-sounding version at an easy level. Certain to become a “must have” for the young band repertoire. (Grade 2.5) Dur: 2:50SKU: HL04003067 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
The Path Not Taken
The image of a “path not taken” may evoke a sense of mystery and excitement at the unknown, as well as the satisfaction of following our own individual path in life – a unique journey different from all others. This engaging work for band follows an arc of emotions ranging from the eager anticipation at the start of a journey; frustration and doubt as the path becomes more difficult and perilous; then elation and joy as the goal is reached and our dreams are realized.SKU: HLPC21015 -
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Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
Themes from First Suite in E-flat
Using excerpts from the first and third movements, but still maintaining the formal and harmonic integrity of the original, this adaptation allows even middle school players to experience the unforgettable themes from Holst’s masterwork. Also, the March movement is very effective when performed by itself. Dur: 4:45 (Grade 2 – Hal Leonard MusicWorks series)SKU: HL04002527 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 2
Time After Time
This often-recorded standard from the ’40s features a distinctive melody and jazz-based harmonies. Michael’s skillfully designed arrangement works through a couple of key changes, and includes a sax soli and flexible solos, all at an easy level. Enjoy great flexibility with the Easy Jazz Ensemble series! Playable with 4 saxes, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and rhythm; includes optional parts for flute, clarinet, F horn and tuba.SKU: HL7011498 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
To Soar with Eagles
In this dynamic multi-style overture for band, Michael Sweeney opens with stark percussive hits, brass fanfares, and swirling woodwind effects. A fast tempo and long build follows, using non-traditional harmonies and overlapping layers of sound, climaxing with a majestic, soaring statement by the entire ensemble. The slower middle section features a solo flute accompanied by rich sonorities and counterlines. The fast tempo returns initiated by the percussion section and then recurring earlier themes as the pieces drives to a satisfying finish. With variety and pacing, this is a perfect choice for contest or festival. Dur: 5:20SKU: HL04003037 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 2
Touchdown Tony
Inspired by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, here is a medium slow funk chart with some serious attitude! Includes a double-time Latin section for soloing that uses only 2 scales. Perfect for novice improvisers. Enjoy great flexibility with the Easy Jazz Ensemble series! Playable with 4 saxes, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and rhythm; includes optional parts for flute, clarinet, F horn and tuba.SKU: HL7011702 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
Troy!
Opening with a majestic brass fanfare punctuated by the percussion section, here is a masterful overture for young players that contains a well-rounded array of moods and styles. The primary theme features a driving pulse and a few mixed meters, while the dreamlike middle section includes free-form atmospheric percussion effects along with lush harmonies. A new spirited fast theme is then briefly introduced before reprising the earlier themes along with a dynamic ending. Mature sounds for young bands. Dur: 4:40SKU: HL04002619 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 0.5
Turbo Rock
Explorer Level (correlates with Book 1, p. 11)Let your beginners crank up the energy level on their very first concert with this driving rock original. Featuring tutti rhythms and nothing faster than a quarter note (except percussion), every section gets a chance to rock out on this winner. Dur: 1:30
SKU: HL00860554 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 2
Undecided
Over the years this classic standard from the ’30s has been recorded by countless jazz artists and big bands. Here in the hands of Michael Sweeney is a medium swing chart designed for young players that features a nice mix of feature spots for saxes as well as brass. Includes short written or ad lib solos for alto sax and trumpet. Enjoy great flexibility with the Easy Jazz Ensemble series! Playable with 4 saxes, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and rhythm.SKU: HL8050032 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 2
Uptown Funk
From Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars, this monster hit is the perfect throwback to a funky R&B style. This arrangement for younger players features modest ranges and repetitive, yet authentic-sounding rhythms. No solos are required – just a little attitude! Enjoy great flexibility with the Easy Jazz Ensemble series! Playable with 4 saxes, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones and rhythm; includes optional parts for flute, clarinet, F horn and tuba.SKU: HL07012551 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 0.5
Viking!
Featuring a dynamic yet easy melody, this powerful piece for first-year players will sound great with limited rehearsal time and help give your students confidence. Every section of the band has interesting parts to play, and the percussion provide a solid foundation in addition to short feature spots.SKU: HL04004735 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 4
Villages
Calling for the band to be divided into four separate ensembles (and spread apart if space permits), Villages explores a wide range of harmonic and rhythmic interplay between each of these musical “villages.” The opening creates a dense canopy of sound, out of which the unique identity of each group variously emerges then melts back into the texture. As the fast pace continues, melodic fragments are bounced from group to group with interjections from the percussion. A slower lyric section provides contrast before the frantic pace returns leading to the exciting conclusion. Innovative in its conception, this stunning work will expose your students and audience to dramatically new sounds for band! Dur: 8:15SKU: HL04003778 -
Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble Grade: 1.5
What’d I Say
From the driving rock style to the familiar call and response refrain, this easy arrangement of the Ray Charles classic will be fun to play and easy to learn. (Remember the John Belushi “Beethoven” skit from Saturday Night Live?)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: HL7470723 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 2
Where the Sun Breaks Through the Mist
Written for the Temecula Middle School Band (CA), this vibrant work features sophisticated sounds expertly scored for young players. The dramatic opening statement is followed by an exciting and rhythmic main theme. Contrast is provided by a tender slow section with a flowing melody and beautiful harmonies. With careful pacing throughout and interesting parts for every section of the band, this is a perfect piece for motivating middle school players. Dur: 4:30 (Includes access to full performance recording online.)SKU: HL04002418 -
Concert Band, Concert Band Grade: 3
Wildcat Valley Fanfare
The Wildcat Creek in central Indiana forms a valley connecting all schools in the Howard County area for whom this piece was written. Opening with the percussion section in a stately style, the main theme is first heard in a chorale-like setting. Designed as an extended fanfare, the piece quickly builds in intensity with each subsequent phrase, and culminates in a fast-paced and brilliant sounding ending flourish. Effective as a concert opener. Dur: 3:15SKU: HL04005054