Grand Russian Fantasia: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

David Marlatt's arrangement transforms a classic cornet showpiece into a genuine ensemble work. By composing new break strains that weave in the Russian folk melody "Kalinka" alongside the original material, Marlatt gives the band members meaningful parts that support and enhance the soloist rather than merely accompany. The result is a piece where the cornet shine without leaving the rest of the ensemble bored.

A brilliant technical vehicle that dances rather than struts. The incorporation of "Kalinka" brings a lyrical, folk-tinged warmth beneath the cornet's virtuosic passages, creating a piece that is equal parts showmanship and musical substance. The added band parts lend a contemporary concert band energy that respects the original while making it feel fresh and ensemble-centered.

Concert band directors seeking a solo feature that genuinely engages the full ensemble. Cornet soloists who want a showpiece with orchestral depth and modern arrangement sensibility. Programs that value multicultural material and the interplay between soloist and band.

• Balance the cornet solo against the band texture carefully during the break strains; the folk melody material in the ensemble parts should support rather than overshadow the technical passages.
• Work the cornet section closely with the featured soloist to ensure the accompanimental figures lock rhythmically, especially where the new composed material intersects with the original.
• Use the full 220 pages strategically; the complete set allows you to hear how Marlatt voices the ensemble throughout, so spend rehearsal time on those fuller textures before focusing on solo passages.
• Establish a clear articulation style early in rehearsals, as the technical character of this piece depends on crisp, unified tonguing across the cornet and the ensemble figures that support it.

Feature this as a mid-to-second-half concert opener or centerpiece. Its technical character and the balance between soloist and ensemble make it ideal for showing off both your cornet section strength and the band's collective musicianship in the same piece. The multicultural folk material pairs well with other internationally sourced repertoire or as a bridge between classical and contemporary programming.

• Supporting a featured soloist while maintaining independent musicality
• Executing technical accompanimentalwriting with precision and clarity
• Reading and performing arranged folk material in a concert band context
• Balancing ensemble texture to enhance rather than compete with a solo part
• Cornet-specific technique: range, articulation, and endurance in showpiece passages