Hopak!: Concert Band Conductor Score

Owens knows exactly how to deliver maximum impact at Grade 2.5 without overreaching. The trombone solo carries genuine personality and earns its spotlight, while the percussion writing avoids busywork and actually propels the energy forward. You'll find yourself programming this one repeatedly because it works: students love playing it, audiences respond enthusiastically, and it genuinely closes a concert on an uplifting note.

Spirited and celebratory from the opening measures, with that unmistakable energy of a folk dance. The harmonies feel warm and layered rather than stark, creating an atmosphere that's both joyful and musically substantive.

Developing concert bands ready to explore multicultural repertoire without sacrificing accessibility. This score works for groups strengthening their ensemble balance and sectional independence at the intermediate level.

• Feature the trombone soloist prominently in rehearsal. Even at this grade level, a player who feels confident will transform the entire piece's character.
• Let the percussion drive the rhythmic vitality. These parts aren't decorative; lock them with the melodic voices so the carefree spirit shines through.
• If your trombone section lacks a capable soloist, use the cued part for another instrument or reduce the solo's prominence without losing the work's effect.
• Treat the Ukrainian folk melody source as a gateway. Players often perform with more conviction when they understand the cultural roots of what they're playing.

Close a spring or winter concert with this piece and watch the audience respond. It pairs naturally with other world music selections or serves as a counterweight to more serious repertoire earlier in the program. The Grade 2.5 difficulty makes it an ideal final piece when you want something that feels accomplished but lets your ensemble finish strong rather than stretched thin.

• Balanced blend within four-part harmonic writing
• Rhythmic precision while maintaining lyrical phrasing
• Ensemble interdependence across sections and parts
• Solo confidence and musical maturity
• Stylistic interpretation of folk-inspired material
• Percussion integration as a musical partner, not accompaniment