Michael Sweeney

Opening with a majestic brass fanfare punctuated by the percussion section, here is a masterful overture for young players that contains a well-rounded array of moods and styles. The primary theme features a driving pulse and a few mixed meters, while the dreamlike middle section includes free-form atmospheric percussion effects along with lush harmonies. A new spirited fast theme is then briefly introduced before reprising the earlier themes along with a dynamic ending. Mature sounds for young bands. Dur: 4:40

Calling for the band to be divided into four separate ensembles (and spread apart if space permits), Villages explores a wide range of harmonic and rhythmic interplay between each of these musical “villages.” The opening creates a dense canopy of sound, out of which the unique identity of each group variously emerges then melts back into the texture. As the fast pace continues, melodic fragments are bounced from group to group with interjections from the percussion. A slower lyric section provides contrast before the frantic pace returns leading to the exciting conclusion. Innovative in its conception, this stunning work will expose your students and audience to dramatically new sounds for band! Dur: 8:15