Aquia Hills: Concert Band Conductor Score

$10.00 USD

Aquia Hills: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: Aquia Hills: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-31736S
Price: 10.00 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

By Gary Fagan

Grade: 3.5 (Medium)

Item: 00-31736S

$10.00

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One moment…

An ethereal opening features solo alto saxophone leading to a tuneful and poignant legato theme. The second half of the piece features a rhythmic driving Allegro that leads to a rousing conclusion. (5:25)

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Series: Alfred Concert Band

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 32

UPC: 038081349695

SKU: 00-31736S

More about this title

About the Composer: Gary Fagan

Gary Fagan brings three decades of band direction experience to his work as a composer and arranger. After 36 years leading bands in Albemarle County, he transitioned to a University Supervisor role at James Madison University, where he also teaches arranging as adjunct faculty. His compositions have been performed at prestigious venues including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic and the White House, and his contributions to music education earned him recognition as Central Virginia Outstanding Middle School Teacher and multiple Outstanding Educator Awards.

Active as a clinician, adjudicator, and arranger, Fagan remains deeply connected to the band world through his membership in ASCAP, the National Band Association, and Phi Beta Mu Bandmasters Fraternity. He holds degrees from Bridgewater College and James Madison University and currently serves as Assistant Director of the Charlottesville Band, where he plays percussion. His dual perspective as seasoned educator and working composer informs music that speaks directly to the needs and capabilities of student ensembles.

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Why we love this

This piece crafts a complete musical arc in just over five minutes, moving from introspective vulnerability to exuberant energy. Fagan's writing respects the Grade 3.5 level by avoiding unnecessary technical hurdles while delivering music that genuinely moves listeners, a balance that makes programming this effective for both student development and audience engagement.

What to expect

Aquia Hills opens with quiet introspection, a single voice speaking against hushed accompaniment. The legato theme draws listeners inward with poignancy before the energy shifts; the Allegro that follows bursts forward with rhythmic drive and momentum, culminating in a rousing, confident finish that feels earned rather than imposed.

Who it's for

Band directors working with Grade 3 to 4 ensembles who want a contest or concert piece with genuine musical substance. This is for programs ready to show audiences that middle-level bands can deliver performances that are both emotionally compelling and technically assured.

How to get the most out of it

Give the alto saxophone soloist room to breathe in the opening. The ethereal quality depends on restraint from the ensemble; keep accompaniment textures transparent and supportive.
Shape the legato theme with a long line rather than phrase-by-phrase articulation. Think of it as a sustained gesture that builds toward the Allegro section.
Lock the rhythm section's foundation during the driving Allegro. Clear articulation of the pulse will help younger players maintain confidence through the section's energy.
Balance the rousing conclusion so that excitement doesn't collapse into rushing. Conduct with clear, confident beats and trust the ensemble's preparation.

How to use it

Program this as a concert centerpiece or early festival selection where you want judges to hear your ensemble's musicianship and interpretive range. The five-minute length fits well on festival schedules, and the contrasting sections showcase both lyrical control and rhythmic precision.