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This miniature suite of Appalachian favourites includes Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair, Sourwood Mountain and Simple Gifts. Even at this easy level, Paul Murtha has skillfully combined a mixture of musical styles in an arrangement that is well-paced and attainable by beginning bands. Duration 2'30'

Explorer Level. Starting with a drum cadence and gradually adding each section of the band, this very easy march is perfect for your beginner band.

From the renowned Belwin catalogue. These four simple pieces can be played individually, but played together are a great combination for your ver beginners to get some concert experience: In the Calm of the Starry Night; The Bermuda Triange; Our Tumultous, Trustworthy and Terrific Trumpets and The Soul of Our School

Bold themes and contrasting musical styles characterize this well-constructed overture for beginning players. Michael is known for providing interesting parts for all players, and this work features clarinets on the main theme, trumpets using mutes, dynamic percussion parts, and strong brass lines. Also included is a brief slow section with a flowing melody and lush harmonies. Great for teaching or performance. (3:20)

One of the most moving melodies ever written is this well-known theme from Holst's “Jupiter”(from The Planets). Paul Murtha has beautifully adapted this for the beginning level through skillful scoring and careful pacing. Dur: 1:50

Explorer Level. Dark and sinister are not words normally associated with music for beginning bands. However, this original provides powerful and dramatic sounds even at this very easy level. With nothing father than a crotchet (quavers in percussion), your players will be eager to tackle this one!

Explorer Level. An important ingredient in your beginning band's first concert is a suitable march. What better choice than this gem from Michael Sweeney that guarantees success right from the start. A powerful-sounding fanfare leads to a march theme built on only quarter and half notes. Also included is a short feature for the percussion section. A winner! Dur: 1:50

Aleatory music for Grade 1? Why not? Through carefully controlled parameters, your beginning players can actually create their own erupting volcano effect. Mazama was the imposing mountain peak in southwest Oregon that erputed 7000+ years ago and became the serene and beautiful present day Crater Lake. Fires of Mazama opens with bold sounds and powerful melodies before the 'eruption' changes everything. AFterwards, a calm chorale leads to the exciting final strains in this ingenious and impressive piece for beginners! Duration 3'20'

Duration: 8:56. Although a very long piece for this level, you an select just to play some sections if desired.

This work was inspired by the composer's Irish heritage and the rich history of Ireland. With three main themes, this programmatic work opens with a peaceful sunrise with mist rising from the bog. The second theme describes the great hall of a majestic medieval castle, complete with vibrant colors and pageantry. The exciting “battle” theme follows and ultimately resolves to a return of the earlier themes. A wonderfully effective setting for beginning players! Performance time: 3:10

From Khachaturian's Gayane Ballet, 'Sabre Dance' is just as you would expect with a solid contemporary scoring. A highly energetic arrangement for your beginners that is familiar to all. (1:54)

Playable by even the youngest Star Wars® fans, this suite of three brief movements includes 'Prologue and Opening Scene,' 'Anakin's Betrayal,' and 'Anakin vs. Obi-Wan.' Themes from Star Wars® Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is a vivid treatment allowing your beginners to join in the excitement of this blockbuster film music. May the force be with you! (3:41)

Johnnie Vinson has expertly adapted two movements from this well-known suite by Peter Warlock based on 16th-century dance music. “Basse-Dance” is a stately and moderate tempo dance in 3/4, while “Mattachins” is an energetic sword dance in 2/4. The unique stylings, and at times unusual harmonies, have been preserved in these delightful setting for beginning players. (2:20)

The melancholy waltz 'Bonnie George Campbell' and a sprightly dance with characteristic Scottish rhythms ' Up and Waur Them A' Willie. Duration: 2:55

Michael takes this tender and lyrical folk song and creates a marvelous setting for beginning players. Even at this easy level, this arrangement provides a wealth of musicality through creative harmonies and skilled scoring. Every section gets a chance to play the melody at some point. Dur: 2:20 (Includes Full Performance CD)

Here's a favourite from the past with a new twist. Every member of your ensemble can be given the opportunity to improvise for one measure. This tune is a great way to provide independent creative playing possibilities. You won't be able to stop your band from playing 'You Really Got Me.' (1:57)