In Storm and Sunshine: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

The piece lives up to its title through vivid orchestral painting. Horns dominate with a fierce, rolling energy that suggests storm clouds gathering, while moments break open to reveal bright, almost jubilant wind passages that seem to celebrate the clearing sky. The effect is theatrical and engaging, never settling into a single mood.

Advanced Grade 4 bands ready to tackle a technically secure march with sophisticated orchestration and interpretive depth. This works well for groups confident in their intonation and rhythmic control, since the Fennell Edition demands precision to land its clever voicing choices.

• Shape the horn figures with clarity and power; Fennell's orchestration asks them to drive the musical argument, not just provide background color.
• Balance the woodwind passages so the 'sunshine' moments cut through without overwhelming the overall march character.
• Study the recorded version (Eastman Wind Ensemble, SCREAMERS album) to hear how Fennell voices the dynamic shifts between storm and calm sections.
• Keep the march stride consistent even through the shifting moods; the joy Fennell describes comes from the contrast, not from losing the pulse.

Program this in the second half of a concert where it can shine as a centerpiece march; the dramatic arc and clever orchestration reward an attentive audience. It pairs well alongside other Fennell Editions or marches from different traditions, showing students the range of expression possible within the genre.

• Reading and executing dynamic contrasts between choirs (horns versus woodwinds)
• Balancing ensemble sound across different instrumental families
• Maintaining march pulse through shifting textures and mood changes
• Interpreting conductor cues that shape the narrative arc of a multi-section work