From Glen to Glen: String Bass
By Robert Sheldon
Grade: 3
Item: 98-PC-DB1877_SB
$7.00
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Description
Inspired by the music of Scotland, this stellar original opens with a strathsprey, written in a bold and majestic manner. A brief transition introduces the beautiful Scottish carol Christ Child’s Lullaby, before a percussion interlude gives a nod to the music of the traditional Scottish military tattoo. The work culminates in an energetic cut-time reel, which brings the piece to a rousing conclusion. Incredible writing!
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Additional Details
Series:
FJH Concert Band
Publisher:
The FJH Music Company, Inc.
SKU:
98-PC-DB1877_SB
More about this title
About the Composer: Robert Sheldon
Robert Sheldon ranks among the most frequently performed composers of wind band repertoire in the world. His works appear consistently on state and national contest lists, and his music has been heard in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Sydney Opera House. He was honored with a doctoral degree from VanderCook College of Music in 2020.
Beyond composition, Sheldon serves as lead author of Sound Innovations for Concert Band and maintains an active schedule as guest conductor for All-State and Regional Honor Bands. He has presented clinics and seminars across the United States and internationally in Japan, Canada, Italy, Germany, Australia, and China. His achievements have earned him recognition from the American School Band Director's Association, Phi Beta Mu, and the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
Why we love this
Sheldon's gift for narrative structure shines here. He builds a compelling arc from the opening strathsprey through the carol and percussion interlude to the final reel, giving your band a satisfying journey rather than isolated musical moments. The orchestration stays transparent enough for Grade 3 ensembles to sound polished while the thematic material feels substantial and concert-worthy.
What to expect
The work evokes the misty landscapes and spirited traditions of Scotland through contrasting musical tableaux. You move from bold, striding opening gestures into tender carol writing, then experience the ceremonial dignity of a military tattoo before the piece erupts into a driving, joyful reel that sends audiences out with energy and warmth.
Who it's for
This piece fits well with Grade 3 concert bands that are ready to tackle multi-sectional works with genuine character. It's equally suited for ensembles preparing contest submissions or concert programs that celebrate world music traditions.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the opening strathspey with attention to the dotted rhythms. These figures define the Scottish character, so let them breathe without rushing the articulation.
- Balance the Christ Child's Lullaby as a true contrast to the outer sections. This moment invites the band to shift into a more lyrical, introspective sound.
- Lock the percussion interlude with your snare and timpani players beforehand. The military tattoo references work best when the rhythmic foundation is rock solid.
- Drive the final reel with infectious energy. The cut-time meter will naturally feel faster, so focus the ensemble on clean attacks and unified rhythm rather than tempo fluctuation.
How to use it
Program this as a concert centerpiece or contest selection that stands confidently alongside classical and contemporary works. The multicultural framing makes it an excellent anchor for a program exploring world music traditions, or pair it with other Sheldon works to showcase his range as a composer for developing ensembles.
Skills your students will build
- Articulation of Scottish dotted rhythms (strathspey figures)
- Dynamic and textural contrast between contrasting sections
- Cut-time meter and reel rhythm patterns
- Ensemble balance in multi-voice textures
- Transitional phrasing and sectional coherence