The '06

The ’06 was composed for my 2006 Graduating class of East Hampton High School. I continue to call this my best march and certainly took the longest to write. While I did in fact conduct my band through another march of mine in 2005, this time I had the opportunity of rehearsing it start to finish. I must say it was one of the most thrilling and enriching experiences of my life. The ’06 premiered at a modestly attended composer’s concert during the middle of the day. Some players may remember my band director’s baton (which I was using) snapping during the Grandioso section; perhaps due to over gusto. You’ll find that many of my marches are almost comical in nature (comparable to the style of Sousa’s Liberty Bell). However, the ’06 takes a more sophisticated approach. The main motif of descending arpeggios is heard from the start, and chimes are also utilized (symbolizing our mascot, the “Bellringers). Other features include a horn fanfare, bluesy chord changes at the trio, and a key modulation up a major second in the Grandioso.

Key: Bb, Eb, F

Meter: 6/8

Difficulty: 3.5 - 4

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