What to expect from Level 2
The Castle Gates
Drawing on visions of medieval castles using the Dorian Mode and several metallic percussion instruments, this piece strives to capture the awe of approaching the waiting Castle Gates using the first 6 pitches of the Concert Bb Scale, basic rhythms, and tutti playing.
Dancing Song
This Dance uses the 1st 6 pitches of the Bb scale and basic rhythmic concepts to convey a peasant-style country dance in simple 8-bar phrases. Every instrument group enjoys the opportunity to perform the melody, harmony, or accompaniment. Opening with a brief intro based on the main theme, low voices lead the first section and pass to the high voices in the second. Middle voices lead the 2nd theme and a back-and-forth leads the 3rd theme back to the main theme, this time passing through the various voices.
In the King's Forest
In the King’s Forest is broken into Three distinct settings, all using the same melody based on the introductory fanfare-like melody. The first setting is at the edge of the forest and is light and more thinly arranged, focusing on the upper voices. The second setting is further into the forest and uses the same melody in the mid voices, but harmonized more heavily. The third setting is deep in the forest and the melody shifts from Bb Major to C Minor and is the most densely arranged. We break through the forest to the other side with a return of the intro fanfare and ends with a triumphant sequence of main theme back in Bb Major.
Using the first six notes of the Bb Scale and simple rhythmic figures, In the King’s Forest offers young band students a chance to perform and connect to mature musical content.=
Lullaby
Lyrical and expressive playing is not beyond early players. This gentle melody uses the first six pitches of the Bb Scale and offers students an opportunity to play smoothly, connected, and with great care to balance of Melody, Harmony, and Bass. There are no “impact” percussion in this piece, only gentle metallic ambience and the rhythmic pulse of the tambourine. This Lullaby ends with a bold chordal statement, showcasing the moods achievable with only six pitches.
Pomp and Celebration
Pomp is a ceremony splendid display especially in public; Pomp and Celebration is a splendid display of pride in accomplishment for your students! This uplifting and bright piece allows every instrument family to play its own unique melody while also functioning as harmony or bass. Perfect for graduations, ceremonies, or school special events, Pomp and Ceremony uses only the first six notes of the Bb Scale and simple rhythmic values while capturing the pride and joy of the occasion!