Asian Folk Rhapsody: Flex Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
By Richard L. Saucedo
Grade: 2-3
Item: 35-PK00388238
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Description
Focusing on a variety of playing styles, here is a distinctive multicultural work scored for flexible instrumentation. First is a quasi march treatment of "The Bamboo Flute," followed by a chorale setting of "Sakura," and concluding with the familiar "Korean Folk Song."
Dur: 4:00
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00388238
More about this title
About the Composer: Richard L. Saucedo
Richard L. Saucedo shaped the Carmel High School bands program over three decades, building a powerhouse ensemble that earned state titles, multiple appearances at the Music for All National Festival, and a rare dual achievement of winning a BOA National Championship while performing at the Midwest Clinic in 2005. His Marching Greyhounds landed in the BOA Grand National top ten for 17 consecutive years and claimed national titles in both 2005 and 2012, establishing Carmel as a national force in competitive marching arts.
Recognized as Indiana's Bandmaster of the Year (1998-99) and inducted into the Music for All Hall of Fame (2015) and DCI Hall of Fame (2022), Saucedo has shaped the field beyond his own program. As former Brass Arranger/Composer for the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps, he contributed to five DCI world championships. He now serves as music ensemble coordinator for the Blue Devils, a Senior Educational Consultant for Music for All and Bands of America, and Chief Judge Team Leader for BOA competitions. His arranging and composing work spans marching bands, concert bands, choral groups, and orchestras.
Why we love this
Saucedo crafts three distinct musical narratives from a single set of Asian melodies, letting your ensemble explore contrasting textures without demanding technical heroics. The flexible instrumentation means every student finds a voice, whether your group is full or running lean, while the cultural content gives students meaningful engagement with music beyond the Western canon.
What to expect
The piece moves like a cultural journey, opening with the vibrant character of a folk march, settling into the contemplative space of a chorale, then concluding with a familiar melody that feels both intimate and celebratory. Each section honors the source material while remaining accessible and engaging to play.
Who it's for
This work suits Grade 2-3 ensembles with mixed instrumentation who want to program something substantial without overwhelming newer students. It works equally well for a band with holes in the instrumentation or a flex ensemble juggling multiple ability levels.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the march character in 'The Bamboo Flute' with clear articulation and crisp releases; the momentum depends on rhythmic precision from the lowest voices.
- Balance the chorale writing in 'Sakura' by bringing out inner voices where harmony shifts; this isn't just a melodic statement with accompaniment.
- Let the familiar 'Korean Folk Song' breathe in its final section; resist the urge to push the tempo even though the energy wants to lift.
How to use it
Build a concert around global traditions by pairing this with other multicultural works, or place it as a lighter moment in a program heavy on classical repertoire. Early in the school year, it introduces melodic development and cultural awareness without demanding the technical maturity your ensemble will build by spring.
Skills your students will build
- Articulation contrast between march and chorale writing
- Balance and blend in four-part harmonic texture
- Cultural listening and interpretation of non-Western melodic phrasing
- Flexibility with mixed and incomplete instrumentation
- Sectional independence and ensemble listening in simultaneous melodic lines