Fortress: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$55.00 USD

Fortress: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Fortress: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-51803
Price: 55.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Chris M. Bernotas

Grade: 1.5

Item: 00-51803

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Fortress, by Chris M. Bernotas, invokes images of power, as perhaps the knights are defending the castle or perched in a tower fending off dangers! Beginning with a strong percussion introduction followed by a prominent melodic call by the trumpets, the Fortress will be well guarded and fortified! The piece continues with a groove and melodic themes for all, including a powerful unison section. While well within the beginning band level, there are plenty of challenges that, when achieved, will instill students with confidence and pride. (2:05)

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Series: Developing Band

Publisher: Alfred Music

ISBN10: 1-4706-7658-3

ISBN13: 978-1-4706-7658-2

UPC: 038081598918

SKU: 00-51803

More about this title

About the Composer: Chris M. Bernotas

Chris M. Bernotas has shaped instrumental music education for over two decades as a composer, conductor, and educator. His role as Director of Instrumental Publications at Alfred Music has allowed him to develop and refine resources used by band and orchestra programs worldwide, grounded in real classroom experience and an understanding of what teachers and students actually need.

Bernotas brings together musicality and pedagogy in everything he writes. He regularly conducts honor ensembles and clinics, working directly with students and directors to explore fresh interpretive approaches. His published works span multiple series and skill levels, from early concert pieces to advanced repertoire, and he has co-authored several foundational texts on ensemble development, percussion, and performance practice. His commitment to both composition and music education continues to influence how young musicians learn and grow.

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Why we love this

Bernotas captures the energy and imagination of younger ensembles without condescending to them. The programmatic title and visual scenario give students something concrete to think about during rehearsal and performance, which deepens their engagement with the music itself. At Grade 1.5, it sits in that sweet spot where the piece is accessible enough for solid musicianship work but offers genuine challenges that feel rewarding when conquered.

What to expect

Fortress opens with percussion strikes that set a martial, protective tone, then shifts into a confident trumpet fanfare that rings out like a call from the ramparts. The piece settles into a driving groove that gives the whole band something rhythmic and satisfying to lock into, before building to a moment of unified strength that feels genuinely triumphant for players at this level.

Who it's for

Young concert bands working at Grade 1.5 who are ready to tackle material with real musical narrative and character. This works especially well for ensembles seeking contest or festival repertoire that challenges them musically while staying within their technical range.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the opening percussion introduction with clear articulation and steady pulse; this is your band's first chance to establish authority and set the fortress's defensive stance.
Bring out the trumpet melodic call with bright, confident tone once the percussion foundation is established; this is the 'guard in the tower,' and it needs presence.
Anchor the groove section with tight rhythm section playing from bass clarinet, trombone, and percussion so the entire ensemble can lock in around a solid foundation.
Balance the unison section carefully; it should feel powerful and unified without overwhelming the lighter texture that follows, so mark dynamic entrances clearly in rehearsal.

How to use it

Program this early in a concert to establish energy and confidence, or save it for a mid-program spot where the contrast with lyrical material highlights its rhythmic vitality. It fits naturally into a contest or festival submission where younger bands benefit from programmatic context and achievable technical challenges.