Dragonfly: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Balmages writes novelty pieces that work because they solve a real musical problem, not because they're gimmicks. Here, having the brass play their melodic line on mouthpieces alone creates genuine ear training while keeping early-grade players engaged with a creative sound that still feels like real music. The score moves purposefully through its formal sections, giving students something structured to listen for rather than asking them to sit through atmospheric effects.

A playful, energetic moment that buzzes with activity from the opening. The concept of dragonflies hovering and darting comes through in the texture and the switch from mouthpieces to full sound, creating a sense of motion and discovery that feels fresh even at an elementary level.

Beginning band programs working at Grade 1 level, particularly those looking to build fundamentals in the brass section without overwhelming players early in the year. Directors seeking pieces that double as teaching tools will find the ear training component genuinely useful for developing listening skills across the ensemble.

• Isolate the mouthpiece section in rehearsal before full ensemble rehearsals. Let brass students practice the melody slowly without valves, establishing clean articulation and tone control first.
• Balance the background texture carefully when woodwinds and percussion support the mouthpiece melody. Keep the accompaniment transparent so the brass line sits clearly on top.
• Mark the transition back to pitched brass instruments explicitly in parts. This moment often surprises students, so a deliberate cue and a measure or two of overlap helps the ensemble reset.

Open a concert with this to set an upbeat tone and demonstrate what your brass section is capable of even early in the school year. It also works well mid-program as a novelty element that breaks up heavier fare and keeps audience attention sharp. The brief runtime makes it ideal for building a thematic program around nature, insects, or animal themes if your district programs that way.

• Playing melodic passages on mouthpiece alone
• Maintaining tone quality without valved assistance
• Listening to and balancing against a full ensemble texture
• Articulation precision at a rhythmic tempo
• Ensemble coordination across multiple textures and instrumental combinations