Composing & Arranging for Concert Band
This session explores the process and essential considerations involved in composing and arranging for concert band, aimed at both novice and experienced educators. It begins with reflective questions to engage participants in thinking about their own teaching contexts and experience with composition. Attendees will explore the many benefits of composing, including fostering a deeper connection between conductor and ensemble, learning instrumental tendencies and techniques, and enriching the educational experience for students.
Bradley S. Hartman shares insights from his own journey as a composer, encouraging educators to reflect on their favorite composers and the qualities that make their music impactful. Key topics include understanding the common tendencies of successful composers, such as knowledge of instrumental ranges, fingerings, and techniques, as well as the importance of crafting engaging, memorable melodies and motifs.
The session covers practical considerations when composing for concert band, including instrumentation, difficulty levels, and voice leading. Special attention is given to the typical doublings and scoring techniques used at various difficulty levels, from beginner to advanced, and how to write effectively for woodwinds, brass, and percussion instruments.
Participants will also learn about music engraving, the importance of accurate score preparation, and the differences between self-publishing and working with a publishing company. Hartman emphasizes that composition is a skill that improves with practice, encouraging participants to start with arranging and engage in ongoing score study to refine their technique.
Finally, Hartman highlights the role of composition in creating a lifelong bond between conductor and ensemble. Whether or not participants have formal training in composition, the session emphasizes that the key to success lies in the willingness to try and the dedication to learning.
Session Objectives:
Understand the Key Considerations in Composing for Concert Band
Explore Composition Techniques for Various Skill Levels
Learn the Importance of Music Engraving and Score Preparation
Develop Confidence and Practical Skills for Composing and Arranging