America: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: America: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-B1118S
Price: 5.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Samuel F. Smith / arr. Robert Longfield

Grade: 1.5

Item: 98-B1118S

$5.00

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One moment…

A stately fanfare in the upper brass and woodwinds serves as an introduction to this fresh and easy treatment of America. After the main theme appears, a transition sets up a key change from B-flat to E-flat and builds to a climax punctuated by a trumpet and snare drum tag. An excellent patriotic salute! (2:15)

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Series: FJH Developing Band

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 241444462898

SKU: 98-B1118S

More about this title

About the Composer: Samuel F. Smith

Samuel F. Smith (1808-1895) was an American clergyman and poet best known for writing the lyrics to "America" in 1831, penning the patriotic text that would become one of the nation's most recognizable songs. Though Smith's primary work lay in hymn writing and religious verse, his contribution to American musical culture extended far beyond his original composition, as "America" entered the standard repertoire and became a staple of civic and educational music programs throughout the country.

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Why we love this

Longfield's arrangement captures the ceremonial dignity of this beloved tune while keeping the technical demands accessible for developing ensembles. The orchestration makes smart use of the upper brass and woodwinds for the fanfare opening, giving players exposure to characteristic patriotic scoring without overwhelming them. For conductors building a patriotic concert or a year-end program, this piece delivers impact and audience recognition in just over two minutes.

What to expect

The piece opens with ceremonial brightness before settling into the warm, familiar melody that audiences instantly recognize. The modulation from B-flat to E-flat lifts the energy while the climactic build and final brass-and-percussion tag create a satisfying sense of arrival and festivity.

Who it's for

Beginning and intermediate concert bands working at Grade 1.5 level, particularly those preparing patriotic programs for Veterans Day, Independence Day, or year-end concerts. This score works equally well for conductors seeking a short, energetic opener or a standalone patriotic feature.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the opening fanfare with clear articulation in the brass; the stately character depends on crisp attacks and controlled releases rather than heavy volume.
Balance the main theme across sections so the melody doesn't disappear into the accompaniment; use the key change (B-flat to E-flat) as a conductor's moment to reset dynamics and draw the band's attention to the new tonal center.
Drill the trumpet and snare drum tag separately from the full ensemble so the players lock in rhythmically without rushing into the final punctuation.

How to use it

Slot this into the opening or closing section of a patriotic or civic-themed concert where you want a piece the audience will connect with immediately. Its compact length (2:15) makes it an ideal partner with other patriotic selections or a strong finale that doesn't overstay its welcome.