BREAK OF THE ANCIENT CODE was composed to assist the clarinetist in "getting over the break" while also understanding the relationship between fingerings on either side of this "break". The first step encompasses a simple fingering pattern which involves the left or alternate side-to-side fingering for the new note F#. The musical fragment takes the clarinets into the chalameau register reinforcing the ability to hold a stable hand position in preparation for the left thumb hitting the register key. At m8, the clarinets have the melodic fragment. At m20, the clarinets have the same melodic pattern, but this time with the thumb key. This accomplishes a number of things: strength in the chalameau register, and paired, associated learning of related notes at the 12th, above and below the break. Also, because the part is soloistic, clarinetists will be inspired to play with a full and warm sound. Other sections are introduced to new notes which operate as leading tones and whole step neighboring tones.

BREAK OF THE ANCIENT CODE is also a part of STORMWORKS Chapter 1-Prime, a Wish to the World, a series of pieces written to inspire the next generation of Heroes. These works can be played as a suite across the Music Program in the manner of THE FOUNTAINHEAD and STORMQUEST, or they can be rendered individually.

A Wish to the World is commissioned by Barry Wentz and the Alpena High School Symphonic Wind Ensemble with Ray Reynolds, Director of the Thunder Bay JHS Band, and Keith Hodsgon & The South Jersey Area Wind Ensemble, Mr. Larry White & The Rancho Buena Vista Wind Ensemble in California, Mr. Paul Holzen & the Parkway Northeast Middle School, and the Kentucky Music Educators Association.

This rock-oriented piece provides beginning saxophonists the opportunity to focus upon the GABCD fingering pattern. As usual, all other students are challenged in ways characteristic to their instruments. This is a fun, but nevertheless useful teaching tool for the beginning band.

In the spirit of Sousa, here is a March, or a Fight Song if taking the optional omissions. 

Scored for younger ensembles, it was composed to pay tribute to the West Point Class of 1939.

You would be saddened to know how many times I am asked to compose a work for someone who has passed on. 

I often say no, but when three band directors called at the same time to compose such a work, I decided to create a young band statement that addresses this situation with a positive perspective. 

Again, the colours explored are new to our idiom... at the time of its creation... the themes and moods easy to connect with. 

Options within the work allow for a range from Grade 2 to perhaps Grade 4.

Please visit the score for more information.

Afincé, the Latin word for "groove," offers still yet another opportunity for an innovative mix of forces and has many possible uses in your program. 

The Grade 3 Level Middle School, or young High School Band may be joined by a visiting college, or professional percussion ensemble!

The piece features the Percussion section, but nevertheless provides a Musical and educational experience for everyone. 

The piece is essentially a groove in 3.5/4. Teaching scenarios accompany this and all young band works.  It can also be rendered with the Jazz Ensemble, and opened for solos, or rendered with just Percussion Ensemble, and/or edited into an exciting field version.

There are many avenues of use and exploration in this strategic addition to your library.

Though a part of STORMJourneys, you can listen to it under WPIM, Winds & Percussion in Motion.

This work pays homage to the faithful who each year make the HAJJ, a pilgrimage to Mecca... and to all those who make each day a new step in Life's journey.

HAJJ is about the moment before the real Prayer begins. It is fraught with intrigue, and sidetracked adventure, moments of introspection and exuberant dance! Many contrasting sections offer the ensemble its opportunity to explore superimposed styles and varied colours. 

The piece may also be rendered with a combined Band of the 3rd Millennium™ and Jazz Ensemble. 

The intent of this work suggests something more global, more akin to all of our Natures. We are, it seems, always involved in a going forth. Like a pilgrim, the voyage begins with full knowledge of what to expect. And then, just like a pilgrim, when the moment of Truth arrives... it is always so much more than what was hoped for. To this journey, this quest, this pilgrimage, I leave you this piece... HAJJ.

The addition of HAJJ to the repertoire is made possible by the joint effort and commitment of many dedicated individuals. Many thanks to these champions of Music and Music Education.