Autopilot: Concert Band Conductor Score

Bernotas constructs this piece so that every section gets a moment to shine. Rather than clustering all the musical interest in one part, he distributes the thematic material strategically across the band, ensuring that every musician feels ownership of the performance. The arc from rhythmic opening through lyrical middle section to final tutti landing provides natural pacing that keeps student ensembles engaged and gives conductors a clear narrative to shape.

Autopilot launches with infectious rhythmic energy that immediately signals forward motion and purpose. The piece then opens up into a singing, lyrical moment where the band can breathe and demonstrate control, before building back into a rousing finish that leaves audiences energized. The emotional arc feels organic, not forced.

This score is designed for conductors leading Grade 1 concert bands, particularly those working with students in their first year or two of ensemble experience. It gives younger ensembles a genuine composition to perform (not an arrangement or simplified version) while respecting where they are musically and technically. Appropriate for concert performances and festival settings.

• Shape the rhythmic theme with crisp articulation and unanimous releases; this establishes the piece's driving character and gives the band confidence from measure one.
• Draw out the contrast when the band transitions to the legato section. The shift in character should feel intentional, not accidental, so conduct with a lighter motion and encourage sustained tone quality from your melodic voices.
• Let the low brass and winds own their moment. Once the melody transfers to these sections, resist the urge to layer in upper parts at full volume. Keep upper woodwinds and upper brass supporting, not competing.
• Build gradually toward the final full-band entrance. The piece naturally wants to crescendo, but give yourself and the band room to grow dynamically over the final eight measures so the landing feels earned.

This works beautifully as a concert opener or early-program selection where you want to grab attention and build the audience's confidence in your ensemble. Its two-minute length makes it ideal for festival competitions where you need a strong, complete musical statement without extended rehearsal demand. Consider pairing it with a slower, expressive piece to showcase range.

• Rhythmic precision and unified ensemble attacks in syncopated passages
• Dynamic contrast and tone quality shift between marcato and legato articulation
• Listening for balance when melody moves between sections
• Phrasing and crescendo control during build to final climax
• Reading simple harmonic progressions in concert band voicing