Dragon Run: Concert Band Conductor Score

$8.00 USD

Dragon Run: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: Dragon Run: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-49503S
Price: 8.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Chris M. Bernotas

Grade: 1.5

Item: 00-49503S

$8.00

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One moment…

The Dragon Run is a 40 mile winding stream that flows throughout Virginia and empties into the Piankatank River. It is also known as the Dragon Swamp and even just The Dragon. This immense ecosystem is known for its rich wildlife and preserved beauty. Dragon Run by Chris M. Bernotas features strong rhythms, intentional dissonance, contrasting dynamics, and wonderful musical opportunities for all. It echoes the excitement of exploring the views and experiencing the sometimes intense wildlife visitors encountered when journeying along the river and surrounding swamps. (2:26) Correlated to Sound Innovations, Book 1, Level 6.

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Series: Sound Innovations for Concert Band

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 24

ISBN10: 1-4706-4979-9

ISBN13: 978-1-4706-4979-1

UPC: 038081570570

SKU: 00-49503S

More about this title

About the Composer: Chris M. Bernotas

Chris M. Bernotas combines deep classroom experience with his role as Director of Instrumental Publications at Alfred Music, where he develops band and orchestra materials used by ensembles worldwide. Over 25 years, he has built a reputation for writing music that young musicians actually want to play—pieces that balance accessibility with genuine musical substance.

Bernotas regularly conducts honor groups and clinics, giving him direct insight into what teachers need and what students respond to. He has co-authored several pedagogical resources, including the Sound Innovations series, and continues to advocate for music education through presentations on conducting, composition, and teaching. His compositions reflect this dual commitment: they inspire musicians while addressing real developmental needs.

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Why we love this

Dragon Run delivers what young bands crave: genuine energy and clear narrative without sacrificing musicianship. The strong rhythmic drive and dynamic contrasts make it compelling to conduct, while the intentional dissonance and varied orchestration give students real musical problems to solve—not make-work parts.

What to expect

The piece captures the restless energy of exploration, moving through moments of wonder and intensity as you navigate the winding river and encounter the swamp's wildlife. Rhythmic momentum anchors the sound, while dissonance and dynamic shifts remind you that this landscape is beautiful but untamed.

Who it's for

This piece belongs in Grade 1.5 concert band programs ready to move beyond unison-heavy writing into real ensemble textures. Young musicians with at least one year of experience will find challenges worth meeting: rhythm reading, dynamic control, and independence within a cohesive sound.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the strong rhythms across all sections so the piece drives forward without losing clarity; clarity and momentum are not opposites here.
Shape the contrasting dynamics deliberately; they're not just loud and soft but reflect the emotional landscape of the journey.
Let the dissonance speak; don't apologize for it or rush past it. Students need to hear how tension resolves, and that requires patience.
Use the 2:26 runtime as a pacing reference, but prioritize musical narrative over metronomic precision.

How to use it

Program Dragon Run in the middle or closing slot of a concert, where its rhythmic drive and distinctive character benefit from the attention. It works well alongside lyrical ballads to showcase ensemble range, and its festival-suitable length and grade level make it ideal for spring contests without derailing your rehearsal focus.