Frederick's Black Devils: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
By Paul Murtha
Grade: 4
Item: 35-PK00343060
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Description
During World War II, Winston Churchill initiated the formation of Special Force Commando Units that would prove so effective as to change the course of the war. The First Special Service Force, led by their intrepid Colonel, Robert T. Frederick, was perhaps the most famous of these units. Due to their ferocious nature and blackened faces for night raids, the fearful Germans gave them the nickname "The Black Devils." In 2015 they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor the U.S. government can bestow. "Frederick's Black Devils" is a stirring concert march that pays tribute to this legendary unit. Dur: 3:30
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00343060
More about this title
About the Composer: Paul Murtha
Paul Murtha is a prolific composer and arranger whose output spans educational wind band repertoire, jazz compositions, and concert works. His pieces consistently balance accessibility with musical substance, making him a trusted voice for directors seeking repertoire that students enjoy playing and audiences enjoy hearing. Murtha has developed a particular gift for historical and commemorative subjects, crafting narratives that resonate both musically and thematically.
Why we love this
Murtha captures the disciplined energy and forward momentum of a military march without ever feeling perfunctory. The orchestration keeps all sections engaged throughout, and the harmonic language sits right where a Grade 4 band can execute it cleanly while still sounding substantial. A piece like this reminds audiences why concert marches remain central to the wind band repertoire.
What to expect
Bold and purposeful from the downbeat. The march unfolds with the confidence of soldiers moving into action, underpinned by strong harmonies and a melody that carries the weight of the story it tells. This is music that makes an ensemble stand taller.
Who it's for
Grade 4 concert bands ready to program something with historical substance and genuine patriotic character. Directors seeking repertoire that appeals to community audiences while holding their musicians' focus through solid musicianship demands.
How to get the most out of it
- Anchor the piece's drive in the bass line and low reeds; their articulation clarity will define how crisp the march lands.
- Shape the melodic content with phrase breathing rather than mechanical phrasing; even a march benefits from musical breathing points.
- Balance the upper voices so the cornet or trumpet melody sits above but not ahead of the harmonic foundation.
- Lock the ensemble's rhythmic precision by having the entire band count together through any syncopated figures rather than isolating sections.
How to use it
Perfect as an opening piece on a patriotic concert or Veterans Day program, where it can set a dignified and energetic tone. Pair it with other historical or military themed works to create a meaningful concert arc, or program it as a standalone feature that demonstrates your band's precision and musicality to the community.
Skills your students will build
- Executing march idioms with clear phrasing and consistent ensemble articulation
- Balancing upper melodic voices against harmonic support
- Building and maintaining rhythmic momentum across a full-length concert work
- Reading and performing historical narrative through musical interpretation