An examination of works for beginning band: Let’s Go Band II by Albert Ahronheim, arranged by Andrew Balent, Midnight Mission, composed by Brian Balmages, Bugler’s Dream, composed by Leo Arnaud, arranged by Paul Lavender, America the Beautiful composed by Samuel A. Ward, arranged by John Higgins

Abstract

This report contains research and analysis of beginning band compositions studied, rehearsed, and performed by the Haysville Public Schools, combined beginning band students on May 18th, 2009, at 7 p.m., in Haysville, Kansas. The repertoire included Let’s Go Band II, by Albert Ahronheim, arranged by Andrew Balent, Midnight Mission, by Brian Balmages, and Bugler’s Dream by Leo Arnaud, arranged by Paul Lavender. The report contains criteria for selecting quality beginning band literature, lesson plans for specific pieces analyzed, history, musical elements, stylistic elements and technical information regarding those pieces. A philosophy of general education and music education is presented and is the basis of all planning, implementation of the chosen works. Biographical information of the composers and arrangers for performed pieces are included. In addition to the performed pieces, America the Beautiful, by Samuel A Ward, arranged by John Higgins is also analyzed using the same criteria and elements mentioned above.