Foothill March: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Foothill March introduces Grade 2.5 bands to compound meter in a way that feels natural, not like a lesson. The work's harmonic richness and shifting textures keep players and listeners engaged without overwhelming a developing ensemble, and its approachable length (2:15) fits perfectly into festivals and concerts without demanding excessive rehearsal time.

Foothill March evokes the gentle roll of Appalachian foothills with a tune that settles into the ear. The 6/8 meter carries a natural lilt, and Hall's evolving harmonies and shifting textures create interest and forward motion while maintaining an accessible, tuneful character throughout.

Grade 2.5 concert bands ready to explore beyond simple duple meters. This work is ideal for developing ensembles that have solid fundamentals and can handle tonal shifts and textural changes without losing ensemble cohesion.

• Feel the 6/8 meter as two beats per measure rather than six; this helps the band lock into the flowing, walking quality Hall has written rather than chopping the line into isolated eighth notes.
• Let the melodic material sing clearly through the changing accompaniment textures. The variety in harmonies should enhance, not distract from, the primary tune.
• Balance the ensemble so the harmonic colors are visible without losing the march's forward momentum and sense of direction.

Program this at festivals and contests where judges value musicianship and compositional craft at the intermediate level. Its length and approachable difficulty also make it a strong opener for a concert, establishing a warm, engaging tone before moving into heavier repertoire.

• Reading and performing in compound meter (6/8)
• Ensemble balance across changing harmonic textures
• Following melodic contour through varied accompaniment patterns
• Maintaining forward momentum and phrasing in non-march contexts