recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist

Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company March by John Philip Sousa/arr. Keith Brion, Grade 3.5
This rousing Sousa March from the March King’s late career is available for the first time in an authentic concert-sized edition, meticulously edited by Sousa expert Keith Brion. Complete with extensive performance information, full score, and modern instrumentation, this march gem features a stirring treatment of “Auld Lang Syne” in the trio. Perfect for any performance situation, and ideally suited for adult community bands, this march will live on for generations to come. Exceptional!

Battle of the Winds by Charles E. Duble/arr. Andrew Glover, Grade 4
If you’ve been looking for a march challenge, this is it! “Battle of the Winds” is a classic circus “screamer” that wails from start to finish! Low brass and woodwinds get a workout from top to bottom, and the upper voices squeal in “battle” with the lower voices. Everyone will thrill to the gaudy fun of this vintage circus tune. Not for the faint of heart, and while it’s a technical workout, it’s well worth the effort. One of the most challenging and exciting marches you’ll ever hear!

Hail to the 514th March by Gary Garner, Grade 4
“Hail to the 514th” is a lively march in a traditional style by West Texas A&M University Professor Emeritus and master band composer Gary Garner. The work is a salute to the 514th Air Force Band and was premiered at Reese AFB in Lubbock, Texas.

Castles in Europe by James Reese Europe/arr. Chandler L. Wilson, Grade 3
Composer James Reese Europe, one of the most famous African-American musicians of his day, was called the “Martin Luther King of music” by pianist Eubie Blake. The first African-American bandmaster in the United States Army, Europe gained great popularity as a dance band leader, a military band leader, recording artist, and a composer of merit. Known in New York music circles, and also for touring Europe with his National Guard band, Europe is remembered today for composing several works, including “Castles In Europe” with the subtitle “The Innovation Trot – Ragtime March.” This delightful work is arranged for today’s concert band by Chandler L. Wilson. An enjoyable ragtime work from an American composer to be remembered!

Radetzky March by Johann Strauss/arr. Robert E. Foster Jr., Grade 3
This lively and appealing march is one of the most widely recognized works of classical literature and one of the most popular concert marches. The catchy rhythms and stylish melody have made this a programming favorite for concert bands since it was first written. Arranged here to be playable by developing bands, this delightful work can now be appreciated and enjoyed by a new generation of musicians and their audiences.

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About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grade 5-12 band and music appreciation in both public and parochial schools in central Ohio, and has been at Stanton’s since 2004. His iPod ranges from jazz and funk to classic and alternative rock, and symphonies. His interests include reading, history, traditional amusement parks, the Muppets, and hockey (especially the Penguins).