Robert W. Smith

Progressive in depth and organization, this is the fourth of four comprehensive warm-up programs used by Robert W. Smith at the podium of every honor band he guest conducts. This warm up program is designed for use in any key with just a standard student part to be included in the band’s folders. This “Clinic” will provide everything you need for your daily warm-up and support your teaching objectives, as well as accommodate the National Standards for Music Education. There are four segments in each Clinic: tone, technique, theory and composition, and chorale. The recording included is only the fourth portion; the chorale. (chorale only: 1:08)

Calls to war are the prelude to this first movement of Robert W. Smith’s Second Symphony for band, based on the classic story of ‘The Odyssey’. You’ll experience the squeaky wheels of the Trojan horse, the forest burning, and the sword fight amidst the distinguished regal melodies and energetic rhythms that drive to a conclusion. The ocean’s presence is evident in the optional transition to the second movement, “The Winds of Poseidon” (BD9923). Much awaited, this work is monumental in nature. (7:44)

The Sound and the Fury was inspired by the literary work of the same name by William Faulkner, known for his epic portrayal of the conflicts between the old and new South. Opening with a vibrant drama of punctuating thrusts in strings, winds, and percussion, the mood only shifts when we move to a lyrical and ambient section of contrasting sounds. Powerful strokes return, moving to a dramatic conclusion. A superior choice for concert or contest with guaranteed stunning audience appeal. (1:58)

This brilliant new work at the young level by master composer Robert W. Smith begins with a characteristic fanfare with an elegant ballad-like section. The rhythms sounds hard but are easy to conquer. A stirring new work! (3:23)