Helios Rising: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$52.00 USD

Helios Rising: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Helios Rising: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-44976
Price: 52.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Todd Stalter

Grade: 2 (Medium Easy)

Item: 00-44976

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One moment…

In Greek mythology, Helios is a Titan who faithfully drove the Sun's chariot across the sky each day, disappearing in the west into Oceanus (the ocean, which the Greeks believed encircled the Earth), and rising out of it again in the east the next morning. Helios' journey at sunrise is referenced musically by the ascending leap in the main theme and the strong driving rhythms of the low winds and percussion. The contrasting light and dark textures in the slow section depict twilight inevitably giving way to the darkness of night. (2:45)

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Series: Challenger Band Series

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 202

UPC: 038081517636

SKU: 00-44976

More about this title

About the Composer: Todd Stalter

Todd Stalter built a band program of national stature during 34 years as Director of Bands at Eureka High School in Illinois. His marching band won 16 Class 1A state championships; his concert band earned consistent Superior ratings at IHSA contests; his ensembles performed at Orchestra Hall in Chicago and Walt Disney World, and won festival championships at the Cotton and Liberty Bowls. He was inducted into the Illinois State Marching Band Championships Hall of Fame.

As a guest conductor, Stalter has led All-State Bands in Georgia and Delaware, along with numerous regional Honor and district ensembles. He remains active as an adjudicator, clinician, and composer, with works appearing on state contest lists across the country and in the GIA publication "Teaching Music Through Performance in Band." He holds degrees in music education and trumpet performance from Illinois State University, where he studied conducting with Dr. Stephen K. Steele.

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Why we love this

Stalter captures the mythological narrative with genuine musical sophistication while keeping the Grade 2 idiom straightforward and playable. The ascending leap in the main theme immediately communicates Helios' journey, and the low wind and percussion writing gives every section meaningful material. The twilight section offers a chance to develop texture and balance without technical overload, making this a rewarding teaching piece that also works as genuine concert fare.

What to expect

Helios Rising opens with unbridled momentum, the ascending leap and propulsive rhythms evoking the mythological chariot breaking free from the horizon. The middle section softens into delicate, shifting colors that suggest the gentle surrender of day to twilight; the darkness creeps in gradually, then recedes as the sun's journey resumes.

Who it's for

Grade 2 concert bands seeking repertoire that balances accessibility with artistic depth. This work suits ensembles preparing for contests or concerts, and gives developing musicians exposure to program music and thematic development without overwhelming technical demands.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the ascending theme with a clear crescendo in the low winds and percussion to emphasize the driving force of the chariot's ascent; the band should feel the upward momentum, not just play the notes.
In the slow section, treat the contrasting textures as genuinely dramatic shifts between light and dark. Balance treble voices gently during exposed passages so the twilight imagery registers clearly.
Lock the tempo at the return of the main theme; rhythmic cohesion in the low winds and percussion is essential to sustain the driving energy that defines this work.

How to use it

Open a concert with Helios Rising to establish energy and set a thematic tone, or place it alongside other works exploring mythology or nature. At Grade 2, it works well as a festival selection that demonstrates musicianship beyond technical difficulty, and its brisk 2:45 duration makes it ideal for contests where time is precious.

Skills your students will build

Responding to thematic material and following musical narrative in program music
Balancing ensemble textures and managing dynamic contrast between sections
Sustaining rhythmic precision in low wind and percussion parts during driving passages
Shaping melodic lines with intentional phrasing and sensitivity to harmonic context