TITLE: SUPERHERO STRUT
COMPOSER: Brad Schoener
PUBLISHER: Schoener Custom Music
LENGTH 2:01
GRADE LEVEL Easy
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This march is labeled "Easy" for elementary band. The key is
concert B-flat major and is at the tempo of quarter note=110 throughout.
The piece begins with six measures of antiphonal statements between the band and the percussion section. Syncopated figures of dotted
eighty followed by a sixteenth, and an eighth note followed by a dotted quarter note prevail throughout the march. Other syncopated figures include
an eighty-quarter-eighth combination.
At letter A, the ensemble plays the spirited march theme while the percussion section remains active. The percussion parts will challenge your percussionists.
This is a fine piece for teaching marcato style of playing. I recommend that breath marks be indicated to ensure proper phrasing.
Letter B ushers in a contrasting section and brings forth a very free and easy obligato played by a solo trumpet. This is followed by an effective crescendo from p level to mp.
I would advise that dynamic markings be added in places after players have long rests. Players should know what dynamic level to play following a long period of rest.
At letter C the question and answer between the band and the percussion section appears, as it did in the six-measure introduction.
Letter D brings the full ensemble into play in a loud finale section. Again, it would be helpful if the dynamics were marked just prior to the band's entrance at D.
The piece ends forcefully and with conviction.
First and second year players will have little difficulty playing this piece. It is homophonic throughout, with no counter lines other than the trumpet obligato. Students will feel comfortable playing safely along with the rhythms of the ensemble.
The march is scored for full band, with two clarinet parts, two trumpet parts, and five percussion parts.
This piece is recommended for elementary or easy middle school band.
Vince Corozine Music , Author of "Arranging Music for the Real World" by Mel Bay Publications
e-mail: vince@vincecorozine.com
(845) 208-3381
10 Veschi Lane North
Mahopac, NY 10541
