CANYON VISTA

Tyler S. Grant ➤

The expression “going for the gold” has deep meaning with those who have a competitive spirit. It encompasses the desire to be high achieving and among the ranks of those considered “the best”. Even more powerful than the act of winning the gold medal is the act of striving for it.

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i. El tra la la y el punteado Pescod’s Galliarda
ii. La Maja Dolorosa
iii. El Majo Discreto

Enrique Granados ➤
arr. Ralph Ford

This contrasting collection of three songs shows why the composer is recognized as one of Spain’s most important composers. Originally composed for piano and voice, it’s transparent nature makes an emotional contribution to concert band literature.

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Carol Brittin Chambers ➤
Susan Scarborough, Conductor ➤

Energy Ball was commissioned by the Driscoll Middle School Honors Band, San Antonio, TX, in honor of Richard Gonzalez, director from 1995-2022. In addition to the students who were currently in the band, many alumni from earlier years also participated in the premiere of this piece at Mr. Gonzalez’s final spring concert, 2022.

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i. John Giley
ii. Barn Dance

Brant Karrick ➤

The Kentucky mountaineers have preserved a proud heritage of traditional ballads, and other old Scottish and English folk songs brought to America by their ancestors. Borrowing from this wonderful genre of folk songs, this outstanding setting of John Riley, The Lonesome Scenes of Winter, Sourwood Mountain, Frog Went-A- Courtin, and Loving Hannah is destined to become a band classic. Skillfully scored and imaginative in setting, Songs of Old Kentucky provides a charming vehicle for expressive playing.

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William Owens ➤
Rebecca Click, Conductor ➤

Inspired by Ukrainian folk melodies, this highly spirited work is captivating in every way! Audacious melodies, rich harmonies and engaging percussion parts are at the heart of the excitement.

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Traditional, arr. by Porter Edam ➤
Rebecca Click, Conductor ➤

The origin of Patapan dates back to 1720’s France. The lyrics were originally Burgundian and reflected a shepherd’s account of the nativity. The simple instruments available to tenders of the flock such as flutes and drums are referenced and imitated throughout the carol. This thematic material lends itself to percussion instruments and even when sung, the rhythm and the accents drive the melody from beginning to end.

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Evan VanDoren ➤

She Loves the Light is conceived for and dedicated to my daughter Anna. As many new parents come to understand, the love felt for your first child at birth is altogether overwhelming, awe-inspiring, terrifying, and more… and something I didn’t even begin to understand until I experienced it for myself. In the many hours spent holding her in the first weeks of her life, Anna was drawn consistently to light. It’s true; many infants are attracted to shiny, bright things as they adjust to the new world around them. But for me, there was something magical about seeing Anna light up when she experienced light catching her eye.

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Nathan Daughtrey ➤
Demondrae Thurman, Euphonium ➤

Commissioned by Jay Hagy and the Canyon Vista Middle School Band for their performance at the 77th Annual Midwest Clinic with euphonium virtuoso Demondrae Thurman as the soloist, Where Dreams Dance was inspired by a poem by Dr. Antony Theodore titlied “There is a Land Where Dreams Dance.” The opening stanzas may be found below.

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Jack Wilds ➤

This piece is all about drama and humor! All of the articulations and dynamic markings are crucial to the piece’s overall effect and should be a main focus in preparation. Feel free to take as much time as feels appropriate to you on the fermatas and caesuras. Make the audience wait for it! Extreme dynamic contrasts will also help to bring the work to life. I hope you and your ensemble enjoy The Jester’s Galop!

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