Concert Time Beginning Band Book 1 - Percussion: Percussion Method Book

Balmages and his co-composers understand exactly what first-year percussionists need: a steady supply of engaging material that keeps them invested without overwhelming the section. The variety across these 15 pieces means you're not drilling the same rhythmic or melodic patterns repeatedly, and students actually want to play through them. This book rewards consistent practice while naturally building technical foundation.

A thoughtfully curated journey through accessible but genuine compositional styles. You'll hear contemporary concert band writing alongside more traditional approaches, all scaled appropriately for young musicians still developing hand independence and technique.

First-year band directors building percussion sections from the ground up. The collection works equally well with second-year students beginning the year, giving experienced players fresh material while keeping the section unified.

• Balance mallet selection across your section early; don't let students settle on whatever mallets feel comfortable in week two. Different pieces benefit from specific hardnesses, and establishing this habit pays off when repertoire demands it.
• Separate your percussion students during rehearsals periodically so they hear themselves as individuals rather than a collective sound. They'll catch intonation and rhythmic issues they'd otherwise mask.
• Record a rehearsal run-through and have students listen critically to their own parts. Most first-year percussionists rarely hear what they actually sound like.

Rotate pieces throughout the year rather than working through sequentially. Use them strategically in rehearsals when you need percussion to carry repertoire, as confidence builders between larger ensemble selections, or as the foundation for a percussion-focused section showcase.

• Mallet control and rebound on various percussion instruments
• Sustained focus across different compositional styles and rhythmic patterns
• Basic ensemble balance and blend within a percussion section
• Reading independent melodic lines on pitched percussion
• Fundamental coordination between hands on keyboard instruments