Chimera: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$60.00 USD

Chimera: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Chimera: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-35373
Price: 60.00 USD
Availability: InStock

(Ki-meer'-uh)

By Vince Gassi

Grade: 2 (Easy)

Item: 00-35373

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Greek mythology is the source of inspiration for this new piece for young band. A chimera is a fire-breathing monster with a lion's head, a goat's body, and a serpent's tail. Fearsome indeed!! But just as dynamic is this musical tale of valor depicting a warrior knight's epic quest to defeat the beast. Spirited harmonies and energetic rhythms abound, contrasting perfectly with a moving lyrical section.

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Chimera: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Series: Belwin Young Band

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 252

UPC: 038081410142

SKU: 00-35373

More about this title

About the Composer: Vince Gassi

Vince Gassi has published over 100 works since joining Alfred Music in 2006, establishing himself as a prolific composer whose energetic voice resonates with young musicians across North America, Europe, and Japan. His education spans the University of Western Ontario, the Dick Grove School of Music in Los Angeles, and a Ph.D. from York University in Toronto, grounding his craft in both classical training and contemporary arranging practices.

For a quarter century, Gassi has taught instrumental music at the elementary and secondary levels while maintaining an active schedule as guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician. His seminars on creative engagement and digital workflows for music directors have become staples at major conferences, and his works appear regularly on international concert and festival programs, including the prestigious Midwest Clinic.

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Why we love this

Gassi writes concert band music that actually engages young players rather than simply filling rehearsal time. The programmatic arc here—a warrior's battle with a mythological beast—gives students a concrete dramatic story to shape their playing around, making the contrast between spirited and lyrical passages feel purposeful rather than arbitrary. At Grade 2, this sits at the sweet spot where bands can execute dynamic contrast without drowning in technical demands.

What to expect

Energetic and vivid when the band leans into the battle narrative, with spirited harmonies that keep the texture interesting without overwhelming younger musicians. The shift to the lyrical section offers breathing room and emotional depth, transforming the piece from pure spectacle into something genuinely affecting.

Who it's for

Young concert bands at the Grade 2 level who are ready to tackle programmatic storytelling without getting tangled in instrumental complexity. Directors programming a mix of contest and concert repertoire will find Chimera moves easily between both contexts.

How to get the most out of it

Emphasize the character shift when moving from the energetic battle music into the lyrical section. Have your band rehearse the transition as a deliberate change in approach rather than simply switching tempos.
Balance the spirited harmonies so no single voice overwhelms the texture. Young bands often pile weight onto the melody; remind them that harmonic interest only lands when supporting voices maintain independence.
Use the programmatic title as a rehearsal tool. Ask students to imagine the warrior's perspective during different sections, which helps younger players understand phrasing and dynamic shape beyond note-reading.

How to use it

This works beautifully as a centerpiece for a concert exploring mythology or storytelling in music, pairing well with other programmatic works at a similar level. It also performs naturally in contest settings where a Grade 2 piece with character and contrast can distinguish itself from straightforward march-and-chorale programming.