Abernathies on Parade: String Orchestra, Conductor Score

Broughton brings his gift for infectious, singable melody to the string orchestra repertoire without pretension. The piece sits comfortably at Grade 2.5, making it accessible for developing ensembles while maintaining the sophistication and polish of a working film composer's craft. It's the kind of work that energizes a concert program and reminds young players why they enjoy playing together.

Abernathies on Parade bounces along with genuine charm, never settling into one texture long enough to become predictable. The melody is the star, but Broughton keeps reframing it with fresh voicings and accompaniment patterns that reward listening. It feels like a concert opener designed to put smiles on faces without requiring fireworks.

String orchestra directors programming concert repertoire at the middle and early high school level. This piece works for ensembles building confidence in ensemble balance and phrasing while performing something genuinely appealing to both players and audiences.

• Keep the main melody singing and prominent in whichever section carries it; the success of the piece relies on the tune being instantly memorable across its various instrumental settings.
• Balance inner voices carefully so that the fresh orchestrations don't get lost when the melody passes to a new group; every restatement should feel like a small discovery.
• Maintain steady, spirited tempo throughout; the lighthearted character depends on rhythmic vitality and forward motion.
• Use the conductor score to shape phrase arrivals and departures with clear gesture; younger players respond well to visual direction that matches the music's playful energy.

This works wonderfully as a bright opening number for a spring concert or family performance, setting an upbeat tone that invites audience engagement. It pairs naturally with either heavier dramatic work (as a palate-cleansing companion piece) or lighter, varied programming where directors want contrasting colors without resorting to transcriptions.

• Shaping sustained melodic lines across phrase changes
• Executing clear articulations in accompaniment patterns while maintaining rhythmic cohesion
• Following conductor cues through repeated material in different orchestrations
• Balancing independent string parts to highlight changing thematic voices