Fortress: 1st Trombone
By Chris M. Bernotas
Grade: 1.5
Item: 00-PC-0019503_TN1
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Description
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)
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Fortress: 1st Trombone comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Developing Band
Publisher:
Alfred Music
SKU:
00-PC-0019503_TN1
More about this title
About the Composer: Chris M. Bernotas
Chris M. Bernotas brings over 25 years of music education experience to his work as a composer and conductor. Currently serving as Director of Instrumental Publications for Alfred Music, he develops band and orchestra materials performed by ensembles worldwide, from beginning students to advanced groups seeking dynamic repertoire.
Bernotas's compositions balance musicality with pedagogical intent, a result of his extensive classroom teaching. He regularly conducts honor groups and clinics while presenting on conducting, composition, and pedagogy. His published works include co-authored resources such as Sound Innovations Ensemble Development, Sound Percussion, Sound Artistry, Sound Innovations Soloist, and Sound Performance, all reflecting his commitment to supporting both teachers and young musicians.
Why we love this
Bernotas understands what beginning bands need: immediate success paired with genuine musical challenges. The percussion-driven opening grabs attention while the prominent trumpet melody gives your brass section a moment to shine, building confidence from the first rehearsal. The unison section and layered textures that follow provide ensemble cohesion without sacrificing interest, making this ideal for festivals or concerts where you want young musicians to feel genuinely accomplished.
What to expect
Fortress opens with the sharp, decisive clang of a fortress under siege, then swells with the confident call of a trumpet announcing defense from the tower. A propulsive groove carries the ensemble forward, and when all voices lock into unison, the piece radiates strength and unity, painting a vivid picture of a stronghold standing firm.
Who it's for
Beginning band directors seeking repertoire that challenges their students musically while keeping technical demands manageable. Fortress works beautifully for ensembles preparing contest or festival entries, offering both the confidence-building satisfaction of strong, accessible writing and genuine musical substance that audiences recognize as genuine.
How to get the most out of it
- Articulate the opening percussion figures with precise, unified attack. This introduction sets the fortress's defensive posture and demands crisp execution from your entire rhythm section.
- Shape the trumpet melodic call with direction and warmth, allowing the melody to soar above the accompaniment. This is a moment for your trumpet players to own the sound.
- Maintain steady tempo and rhythmic clarity through the groove sections. Lock the harmonic foundation early so improvisation and layering can happen securely.
- Build intensity toward the powerful unison section by gradually increasing dynamic control. Mark incremental crescendos in rehearsal so students understand the architecture of the piece.
How to use it
Program Fortress early in a concert to establish energy and immediately engage the audience with vivid imagery. The piece's 2:05 duration fits neatly into multi-work sets and pairs well with lyrical selections that follow, creating dynamic contrast. Its festival-friendly accessibility and programmatic clarity make it an excellent choice for young ensembles entering their first competitive events.
Skills your students will build
- Precise rhythmic coordination in percussion-driven textures
- Balanced ensemble sound and unison intonation
- Melodic phrasing and dynamic shaping in trumpet passages
- Sectional independence within a unified harmonic framework
- Confidence and musicality at an accessible technical level