Dem Bones: (wp) E-flat Tuba B.C.

Michael Story's arrangement preserves the spiritual's character while giving young bands genuine fun with glissandos in the trombone section. At Grade 1, it's accessible enough for early-year ensembles but includes enough personality and sectional color to keep players engaged and rehearsals lively.

Warm and familiar, with a respectful nod to tradition alongside moments of playful trombone sparkle. The tune carries the quiet strength of a spiritual while the arrangement invites your band to explore and celebrate its character.

Beginning concert bands ready to tackle a recognized spiritual with authentic roots. This works especially well for groups building confidence with sectional features and looking to program music that connects students to African-American musical heritage.

• Establish the glissando style in rehearsal by having trombones practice the technique on a single note first, then apply it deliberately to their featured passages. Consistency across the section makes the effect land properly.
• Balance the melody across sections rather than letting any single part overshadow the spiritual's familiar tune. The arrangement's charm depends on clean ensemble blend.
• Keep the tempo steady and relaxed. Spirituals breathe best when given space; rushing undermines the traditional character.
• Bring out the rhythmic vitality without losing the reverent foundation of the piece. This is a spiritual with personality, not a comic novelty.

Program this early in a concert to establish an inviting, accessible tone before moving into more complex works. It pairs naturally with other sacred or traditional music and serves as an excellent choice for educational contexts where cultural repertoire matters.

• Glissando technique in trombone section
• Balancing sectional melody and accompaniment
• Ensemble blend across sustained and lyrical passages
• Rhythmic precision in Grade 1 ensemble writing
• Stylistic interpretation of spiritual traditions