recommended by Ken T., Band Education Specialist

Midnight Waltz by Matt Neufeld, Grade 1.5
This lively minor key waltz brings to mind an eerie scene as creatures of the night dance the night away. After a brief introduction where the dancers seem to curtsey to each other, the elegant but slightly demented waltz melody is ushered in by saxophones. Melodic elements are added as the piece progresses and gains energy, and all instruments have important roles in the melodic fabric. The third movement of composer Neufeld’s “Haunted Mansion“ Suite, it should be performed with a lightness of articulation that will provide your concert with a uniquely lilting yet haunting feel.

Their Souls Were Lifted from the Dust by Tommy Yu, Grade 5
The inspiration of this powerful wind ensemble piece came from the tragic events of the atomic bombing on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. This piece is a memorial work for one of the eventual victims, a young girl named Sadako Sasaki. At the age of ten, Sadako was diagnosed with Leukemia, and she was given but a few months to live. Determined to survive, Sadako clung to Japanese traditional belief that if she folded one thousand origami cranes (senba-zuru), the Gods would grant her wish to live, but her wish was unfortunately not realized. This very original work is a musical eulogy for Sadako, and uses many poignant solos and simple ensemble singing in Japanese and English to convey a message of hope and peace for our fragile planet and its inhabitants. Grand Prize winner of the 2021 Grand Mesa Music Composition Contest.

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About the Author:
A former band director, Ken taught grades 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, outdoor activities (especially hiking), and watching hockey.