Dancing Kites: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Bernotas understands that young bands need repertoire that teaches musicianship without overwhelming them technically. "Dancing Kites" delivers exactly that: a piece built on lyrical phrasing and harmonic color that naturally coaches students in breath control, blend, and dynamic shaping. The memorable melody invites genuine musical expression rather than mere note-reading.

Imagine something light and weightless drifting through air—gentle, flowing, never rushed. The harmonic language creates moments of warmth and subtle color that feel sophisticated even though the technical demands remain approachable. Students experience the satisfaction of performing something genuinely musical.

This piece works perfectly for concert bands at the early intermediate level who are developing independence in reading while building confidence in lyrical expression. It suits ensembles preparing for festival appearances or spring concerts where musicality matters as much as technical precision.

• Let the melody breathe by giving the lead voice clear prominence in the clarinet and alto saxophone lines; young musicians often struggle with volume balance when multiple sections carry thematic material simultaneously.
• Shape each phrase with subtle dynamic contours rather than hitting marked dynamics as isolated targets. Moving toward musical moments before cresting them creates the floating quality the title suggests.
• Balance the harmonic accompaniment carefully so sustained chords remain transparent behind the melody; young brass players tend to play too heavily in support roles.
• Rehearse the ensemble as a single vocal line first, regardless of instrumental assignment. This unified approach builds musicality before students focus on their individual parts.

Program "Dancing Kites" as a contrast piece on a concert that includes more energetic works; its lyrical character and 2-minute duration make it an ideal opener or a bridge between sections. It also serves well as a festival choice when adjudicators are evaluating musicality and ensemble balance at the developing level.

• Sustaining tone quality and intonation through longer phrases
• Balancing melody and accompaniment textures
• Shaping dynamics with intention rather than playing marked dynamics in isolation
• Listening to blend harmonic sonorities across the ensemble
• Responding to conductor's interpretive choices in lyrical style