Samuel R. Hazo is a prolific composer for concert band whose work spans festival favorites, educational pieces, and substantial full-length compositions. His writing demonstrates a clear understanding of what works on the concert stage: accessible melodic content paired with orchestration that engages all sections without demanding virtuosic technique. Hazo has built a significant catalog that appeals to directors seeking music that energizes audiences and students alike.
Why we love this
Hazo captures the percussive character of Sáami traditional music without relying on ethnic stereotypes or overly exotic orchestration. The piece breathes naturally at Grade 3, with rhythmic energy that holds audience attention while remaining accessible to developing players. It's the kind of concert band work that feels substantial without being pretentious.
What to expect
The piece channels the driving energy of traditional percussion instruments while maintaining the warmth of concert band orchestration. There's a sense of forward momentum throughout, propelled by the drums but supported by flowing melodic lines that give the piece structural coherence.
Who it's for
Bands in the Grade 3 range seeking festival or contest music that stands out without excessive technical demands. Directors building a program around world music themes or cultural exploration will find this piece genuinely useful, not just thematically relevant.
How to get the most out of it
Lock in the rhythmic foundation early in rehearsal. The percussion section carries much of the piece's character, so invest time in unison articulation across the drum line before layering in harmonic content.
Shape the melodic phrases through dynamics rather than tempo fluctuations. This maintains the propulsive energy while creating musical interest for listeners.
Balance the brass and woodwind doublings carefully during tutti sections. The arrangement can easily tip toward heaviness if any choir overpowers the others.
How to use it
Program this alongside other folk or world music selections to explore how composers adapt traditional material for modern ensembles. It works equally well as a mid-program energy piece or as part of a concert celebrating cultural diversity in music.
Skills your students will build
Rhythmic precision in asymmetrical drum patterns
Balance between percussion and pitched instruments in driving accompaniment
Articulation consistency across homophonic passages
Dynamic shaping of melodic lines without sacrificing rhythmic integrity
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
