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Peachtree Symphonic Winds
Community Band
Concert Notes
Them Basses – G.H. Huffine
A lively march composed in 1924, Them Basses is a staple of band repertoire, particularly beloved by low brass players. It features energetic melodies, catchy rhythms, and—true to its name—an emphasis on the bass section. The piece exudes a lighthearted, foot-tapping charm, making it a favorite among audiences.
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American Overture for Band – Joseph Willcox Jenkins
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Played in loving memory of PSW Founding Member, Les Hammond
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Composed in 1953, this overture was written for the U.S. Army Field Band and is known for its brilliant brass fanfares and virtuosic woodwind passages. It captures the energy and optimism of American music, featuring bold harmonic progressions and vibrant rhythmic drive. The work’s fast-paced nature and stirring melodies make it an exciting opening to any concert.
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Night Flight to Madrid – Mark Williams
This piece takes listeners on a nocturnal adventure, painting a musical picture of a thrilling flight over the Spanish capital. Williams’ composition showcases lively Spanish rhythms, rich harmonies, and dynamic contrasts that evoke the vibrancy of Madrid’s nightlife. The interplay between sections of the band adds depth and excitement to this exhilarating work.
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Summon the Heroes – John Williams
Composed for the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, Summon the Heroes is a powerful and inspiring work that celebrates the spirit of competition and human achievement. John Williams masterfully blends soaring brass fanfares with lyrical themes, creating a musical tribute to heroism. This piece has become an iconic selection for patriotic and ceremonial performances.
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Second Suite in F for Military Band – Gustav Holst
Written in 1911, this suite is one of Holst’s most famous contributions to wind band literature. The piece consists of four movements, each based on English folk songs:
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March – A stately opening built on Morris dance tunes.
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Song Without Words (I’ll Love My Love) – A lyrical, emotional melody.
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Song of the Blacksmith – A rhythmic piece imitating the sounds of a blacksmith’s hammer.
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Fantasia on the “Dargason” – A lively, perpetual-motion dance interwoven with Greensleeves.
The suite is a cornerstone of concert band repertoire, showcasing Holst’s mastery of orchestration and melody.
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Sweet Georgia – Michael Brown
This swing-style composition brings new life to the classic jazz standard Sweet Georgia Brown. Known for its upbeat and playful melody, the piece features syncopated rhythms, vibrant brass writing, and exciting solo lines. Michael Brown, a notable concert band arranger, infuses the work with his signature smooth harmonies and jazz-inflected style, making it a crowd-pleaser.
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Selections from Wicked – Arr. Michael Brown
Based on Stephen Schwartz’s hit Broadway musical Wicked, this medley captures the magic and drama of the show. The arrangement features memorable songs such as No One Mourns the Wicked, Dancing Through Life, Defying Gravity, and For Good. The music transitions between high-energy moments and heartfelt ballads, reflecting the emotional journey of the musical’s characters.
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Star Wars Heroes – Arr. Jerry Brubaker
This exciting medley celebrates some of the most heroic themes from Star Wars. Featuring John Williams’ iconic music, the arrangement includes themes associated with legendary characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo. The powerful orchestration and dramatic shifts in mood make this selection a thrilling conclusion to any concert.
Past Performances
October 2024 Concert Repertoire
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Midway March arr. John Moss
Composed for the 1976 film Midway, which tells the story of the pivotal World War II naval battle, this march showcases John Williams’ gift for stirring patriotic themes and grand orchestrations. With powerful brass fanfares and a militaristic rhythm, the Midway March evokes a sense of heroism, bravery, and optimism, reflecting the resilience of the characters portrayed in the film. Williams’ ability to craft music that elevates both the personal and historical drama in films is on full display here.
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Harry's Wondrous World arr. Jerry Brubaker
This magical piece is part of the score from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001), where John Williams masterfully captures the whimsy, wonder, and adventure of J.K. Rowling’s iconic world. The lush orchestration highlights Williams’ ability to bring to life a sense of enchantment and innocence, which is perfectly aligned with Harry’s early journey into the wizarding world. Williams' sweeping themes and evocative motifs cemented the sound of the Harry Potter series in cinematic history.
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Raiders March arr. Jay Bocook
As the main theme for Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), the Raiders March has become synonymous with the daring exploits of Indiana Jones. John Williams' powerful brass and sweeping strings create an unmistakable heroic sound that perfectly captures Indy’s swashbuckling spirit. The march is both adventurous and bold, reflecting the character’s charisma and tenacity. Its iconic melody remains one of the most recognizable in film history, and Williams’ ability to convey adventure through music is on full display here.
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Soaring with John Williams arr. Robert W. Smith
This piece is a tribute to the awe-inspiring scope of John Williams' career. His music, often described as "soaring," brings an emotional uplift, whether in films or the concert hall. Soaring with John Williams features thematic highlights from some of his most iconic works. Through sweeping melodies and majestic harmonies, this piece encapsulates Williams’ incredible ability to inspire and transport listeners to worlds both fantastical and deeply human.
Jurassic Park - arr. Paul Lavender
Originally composed for Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park (1993), John Williams' score evokes both awe and terror as it accompanies the film’s exploration of the rebirth of dinosaurs in the modern world. The theme’s opening, marked by sweeping strings and a majestic melody, expresses the wonder of the park’s creations, while darker undercurrents hint at the dangers lurking beneath the surface. Paul Lavender’s arrangement brings the same sense of grandeur and emotional depth to the concert hall, ensuring that this masterpiece continues to thrill audiences beyond the silver screen.
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Olympic Fanfare and Theme arr. James Curnow
Written for the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, Olympic Fanfare and Theme is one of John Williams' most recognizable and frequently performed works. The piece blends the grandeur and excitement of the games with a sense of international unity. The majestic brass and triumphant rhythms reflect the spirit of athletic excellence and human achievement, making this fanfare a fitting tribute to the Olympic Games. Williams' ability to capture the emotion of global events through music has cemented this piece as a fanfare for the ages.
JordanCon 2024 Concert Repertoire
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Raiders March - From "Raiders of the Lost Ark" - John Williams, arr. J. Bocook
The "Raiders March" is an adventurous and heroic composition by John Williams, serving as the iconic theme for the Indiana Jones film series, characterized by its bold brass fanfares and adventurous motifs.
Superman - Suite for Concert Band - John Williams, arr. R. Lowden
"Superman March," also composed by John Williams, captures the essence of the legendary superhero with its majestic melodies and soaring themes, embodying the spirit of heroism and triumph.
(Music from) The Incredibles - Michael Giacchino, arr. J. Bocook
"The Incredibles," composed by Michael Giacchino, features a dynamic and energetic score that complements the film's action-packed narrative, blending elements of jazz and contemporary orchestration to convey the excitement of superhero adventure.
Pirates of the Caribbean - Klaus Badelt, arr. M. Sweeney
"Pirates of the Caribbean," originally composed by Hans Zimmer, is renowned for its swashbuckling motifs and adventurous spirit, evoking the thrill of high-seas escapades with its memorable melodies and stirring orchestrations.
Captain America March - Alan Silvestri, arr. M. Brown
The "Captain America March," composed by Alan Silvestri, represents the patriotic heroism of the Marvel superhero, with its bold brass flourishes and stirring themes echoing the spirit of courage and resilience.
Star Wars Heroes - John Williams, arr. J. Brubaker
"Star Wars Heroes," composed by John Williams, celebrates the heroic characters of the Star Wars saga with its epic orchestration and iconic motifs, capturing the essence of adventure and camaraderie across the galaxy.
Symphonic Suite from Star Trek - Michael Giacchino, arr. J. Bocook
"Star Trek," originally composed by Alexander Courage, is characterized by its majestic fanfare and sweeping melodies, embodying the spirit of exploration and discovery that defines the beloved science fiction franchise.
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The band wants to thank everyone in attendance and JordanCon alike for giving us this opportunity to share music with a new audience. We hope to see you all again at future performances. Be sure to follow us on social media to stay informed of the band's future events!
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