Forge Ahead!: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Forge Ahead opens with brightness and forward motion, then pulls back into something more introspective before surging forward again. The clarinets carry a lyrical thread that feels genuinely songful rather than technical, and as more voices join the texture, the piece builds genuine excitement without ever feeling hectic or out of control.

This works for concert bands at the 2.5 grade level, which includes middle school bands and younger high school ensembles that are reading comfortably in treble and bass clefs but not yet tackling advanced key signatures or complex syncopation. It also suits experienced elementary bands and community ensembles building confidence in performance and balance.

• Shape the opening fanfare with clear articulation and unified tone across the brass. This is your audience's first impression, so commit to the celebratory character without rushing the tempo.
• Balance the clarinet melody in the quieter passage by asking the section to play from the diaphragm rather than backing off the embouchure. Young clarinetists often disappear when told to play softly.
• Mark a clear baton preparation during the moment of reflection. This transition needs to feel intentional and connected, not like the band has lost its way.
• Build momentum gradually in the final section. Resist the urge to jump into the exhilarating conclusion at full speed; let the acceleration emerge naturally so it lands with impact.

Program this as an opening number to set an upbeat tone for a concert, or use it as the centerpiece of a program showing range if you want to demonstrate your band's ability to handle both reflective and energetic writing in one piece. It pairs well with slower lyrical selections since Mier's contrasts give you natural programming variety without needing to search for completely disparate styles.

• balancing multiple melodic lines across different sections
• maintaining tempo during varied dynamic and textural changes
• executing articulation cues cleanly in fanfare-style figures
• shaping a melodic line with phrase direction and breath awareness
• responding to conductor cues for transitions and key changes
• blend and intonation in sustained harmonic passages