Aragon 1945-1952 (Dance Suite): II. Tennessee Cover Image

Aragon 1945-1952 (Dance Suite): II. Tennessee: Concert Band, Full Score

$20.00 USD
Sale price  $20.00 USD Regular price 
Skip to product information
Aragon 1945-1952 (Dance Suite): II. Tennessee Cover Image

Aragon 1945-1952 (Dance Suite): II. Tennessee: Concert Band, Full Score

By Ira Hearshen

Grade: 4

Item: 36-50105210

$20.00
Shipped

One moment…

Description
As may be readily apparent from the title, the second movement of this stellar work from Ira Hearshen is reminiscent of Tennessee Waltz. The waltz was a huge hit for Patti Page in 1950 and, as of 1974, was the biggest selling song ever in Japan. As with the other movements of the suite, the tunes are present only in the mood and style of the work and not quoted or presented in actuality.

Aragon 1945-1952 (Dance Suite): II. Tennessee: Concert Band, Full Score isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.

Sample Pages

No sample pages found.

Sample Audio
No sample audio found.
Sample Video
Additional Details
Series: LudwigMasters Symphonic Band
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
ISBN10: 1-63-887160-4
ISBN13: 978-1-63-887160-6
UPC: 654690455710
SKU: 36-50105210
Instrumentation: Concert Band

More about this title

About the Composer: Ira Hearshen

Ira Hearshen brings a distinctive compositional voice to band literature, drawing inspiration from American popular music and cultural moments of the mid-20th century. His work demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how to weave vernacular idioms into concert band writing without resorting to literal quotation, creating pieces that feel both accessible and musically substantial.

Why we love this

Hearshen's approach to source material is refreshingly restrained. Rather than quoting the melody directly, he captures the essence and character of a beloved song through orchestration, harmony, and rhythmic treatment, which challenges your ensemble to listen for subtle musical allusions. The Grade 4 level makes this sophisticated compositional technique available to developing bands without overwhelming them technically.

What to expect

A graceful, nostalgic journey through American popular memory. The waltz carries an intimate quality despite being written for full band, with the harmonic language and orchestration suggesting the warmth of mid-century melodies without ever spelling them out. There's an elegance to the restraint.

Who it's for

Directors working with solid Grade 4 ensembles who want to explore compositional sophistication beyond straightforward arrangements. This movement works especially well for groups developing their ability to interpret subtle musical character and respond to stylistic demands.

How to get the most out of it

  • Shape the waltz rhythm with elegant phrasing rather than strict metronomic precision; let the melody breathe within the characteristic three-beat pattern
  • Balance the accompaniment carefully so supporting sections enhance rather than overshadow the primary melodic line
  • Consider the historical context of 1950s popular music when shaping articulation and dynamics; the mood should feel nostalgic but not heavy-handed

How to use it

Include this as part of a concert exploring American musical history, or program it alongside other movements from the suite to showcase Hearshen's compositional range. The Grade 4 accessibility makes it an excellent choice for mid-season programming when your ensemble is gaining confidence with stylistic interpretation.

Skills your students will build

  • Recognizing and interpreting musical allusion and stylistic reference
  • Balancing transparent orchestration with clear melodic projection
  • Performing in waltz meter with musical phrasing and appropriate rubato
  • Understanding harmonic context and its role in establishing character

You May Also Like