A Life Worth Living: Concert Band Conductor Score

$12.00 USD

A Life Worth Living: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: A Life Worth Living: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-50668S
Price: 12.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Brian Balmages

Grade: 2.5-3

Item: 00-50668S

$12.00

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A powerfully lyrical work, A Life Worth Living facilitates meaningful discussions about self-worth, caring for others, and much more. Using harmonies, colors, and textures not often found in pieces at this level, Brian Balmages has created a work playable by younger musicians yet musically appropriate for any level ensemble. Absolutely stunning. (5:00)

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Series: MakeMusic Young Band

Publisher: MakeMusic Publications

ISBN10: 1-4706-6029-6

ISBN13: 978-1-4706-6029-1

UPC: 038081577098

SKU: 00-50668S

More about this title

About the Composer: Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages has established himself as a composer and conductor working across orchestral, band, and chamber repertoire at the highest levels. His works have been heard in prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Sydney Opera House, performed by ensembles ranging from professional orchestras to school groups. He received the A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association, won the 2020 NBA William D. Revelli Composition Contest for Love and Light, and holds membership in the American Bandmasters Association.

Beyond composition, Balmages maintains an active conducting schedule with all-state ensembles, university groups, and professional orchestras worldwide. He has guest conducted at the Midwest Clinic, Western International Band Clinic, and numerous regional conferences. Currently serving as Director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred and MakeMusic, he holds degrees from James Madison University and the University of Miami, where he was commissioned to compose music for the university president's inauguration.

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Why we love this

Balmages writes with genuine sophistication at this level without condescension. The harmonic language and textural variety here rival pieces at considerably higher grades, yet the orchestration remains accessible for younger musicians. A work that opens meaningful conversations while sounding genuinely mature.

What to expect

Introspective and affirming, with the kind of harmonic warmth that invites genuine reflection without sentimentality. The orchestration draws on colors and textures that feel fresher than standard fare at this level, creating emotional immediacy that audiences remember long after the final chord.

Who it's for

Conductors seeking repertoire that speaks to both younger musicians and their audiences with artistic depth. This works equally well for concert bands in grades 2-3 and as a meaningful programming choice when you want substance beyond typical grade-level literature.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the long melodic lines with vocal phrasing rather than mechanical pulse; let the lyricism breathe even in younger sections
Balance the upper woodwind colors carefully; the harmonies depend on hearing all voices distinctly without sacrificing blend
Resist the urge to rush tempos during the emotional peaks. The power comes from sustained line, not tempo momentum
Use dynamic contrasts intentionally to support the thematic content about self-worth and connection; quiet doesn't mean less important

How to use it

Program this as a centerpiece for concert programming where you want to shift tone and intention. The programmatic content makes it ideal for thematic concerts focused on student wellness, character, or contemporary issues facing young musicians. At five minutes, it anchors a concert without overwhelming a young band's stamina.