Grade 3
This original, lyrical composition for concert band was inspired by the prayer Footprints (Also known as Footprints in the Sand). The piece is in ABA form beginning with main theme stated moderately slow before leading to a contrasting, fast middle section in a new key. That section transitions back to a Maestoso version of the main theme in the original key. The piece ends quietly after a final statement of the main theme. It is highly accessible for developing groups but does include some challenging runs for the woodwinds in the middle section.
It is dedicated to the memory of Father Joe Bradley, a Catholic priest who was an inspiration to all that knew him, especially the young people he worked with at Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo, CA. One of Father Joe's passions while at Serra was leading chapel services for the football team before every game. Head Coach Patrick Walsh, along with Father Joe, built a highly successful program based on the school motto of producing men of faith, wisdom, and service to others. Father Joe had a heart transplant and lived 19 years with his new heart, passing away in early 2025. His funeral was attended by hundreds of people of all ages and the Footprints prayer appeared on the program.
Grade 4
Captain Ahab’s story of obsession, and ultimate failure at the hands of Moby Dick is, of course, a well-worn cautionary tale. The tale of the Pequod, the ship that also met its demise as a result of Ahab’s actions is, in my eyes, worth examining. Requiem for the Pequod begins with “Two Bells,” tolled to mark the end of the day before Ahab and his crew set sail. The minor theme, played by a solo flute, sets the mood as restful, but somewhat ominous at the same time; treatments by the brass in chorale style and then the full ensemble follow. The next three sections beginning at letter A feature up-tempo variations on the main theme followed by a lively sailor’s shanty at letter D, both depicting carefree life at sea. A return to a melancholy minor theme at letter E portrays the tedium of months at sea as the Pequod and her crew travel toward their destination, unaware of the fate that awaits them. The final section beginning at letter F depicts the culminating battle, from the stirring of Moby Dick beneath the waves to the sinking of the Pequod and the death of Ahab and the crew, save Ishmael, who recounts the tragic tale in the final section epilogue.
Grade 4
This arrangement, originally commissioned for a marching band, has been re-scored for symphonic band and would make a nice opener or closer for a themed concert, or just to play for fun. The higher rating is in regards to a few woodwind passages and the percussion parts.
Grade 2
An adaptation of the choral work of the same name, also by Jay Jordan, this new version, commissioned by the Borel Middle School Chamber Orchestra, San Mateo, CA, Helene Grotans ,Director, is perfect for middle school string orchestras with none of the parts going beyond first position. Detailed bowing suggestions are also included. It is scored for 1st and 2nd violin, viola, 'cello, and double bass and includes a 3rd violin part that is a treble clef doubling of the viola part. The haunting melody in dorian mode set in a gentle 3/4 time is an effective setting for the perfectly metered and rhymed verses of "The Lay of the Last Minstrel: Canto 6" by Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832). This section of Scott's epic poem describes the phenomenon of Scotland's Rosslyn Chapel appearing to be on fire anytime a descendant of the founder of the chapel dies.
Grade 3
This new, original composition for string orchestra, was inspired by a couple of themes from pinball games, and is dedicated to Helene Grotans, music educator, violinist, and committed pinball fanatic. It's rated at Grade 3 and includes detailed bowing suggestions as well as a violin 3 part that is a double of the viola. It's appropriate for advanced middle school, high school, and adult orchestras.
Grade 2+
The classic by the band Free arranged for pep band or marching band with fully scored marching percussion parts for snare drum, trio drums, cymbals, and single bass drum.
Grade 3
The rockin' song by Guns and Roses arranged for pep/marching band. The moderately easy marching percussion parts are scored for snare drum, trio drums, cymbals, and single bass drum; an optional trap set part is also included.
Grade 2
A very playable arrangement of the Steve Miller classic for pep/marching band. Marching percussion is scored for snare drum, trio drums, cymbals, and single bass drum; an optional trap set part is also included. Great for "in the stands" performance, especially at time outs.
Grade 2.5
Fans of the Who will recognize this rockin' shortie as the music from the title sequence of the original C.S.I. television series. At just under a minute in length it's perfect for football and basketball timeouts.
Grade 2
This arrangement of E.F. Goldman's "Staccato Tonguing No. 1" from Practical Studies for the Trumpet makes a great tonguing warm up for your concert band. The arrangement includes full percussion parts including mallets, snare drum, bass drum, crash cymbals, and timpani. Use the order form to obtain a free link to the score and all parts.
Grade 2
These scale-oriented timing warm ups are scored for full band plus a quad drum part for drum line use. Written in concert Bb, they are playable in any key.
Timing Warm Up #1: Score Recording Performance Note: for an added challenge this warm up can be played as a round.
Timing Warm Up #2 Score Recording