Mountain Rangers: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Bankston constructs this piece around section soli that give every player a moment to shine, keeping both your ensemble and audience invested as the piece unfolds. The Grade 2 scoring makes it genuinely playable while the bold, energetic character delivers real concert impact without requiring virtuosic chops.

Mountain Rangers captures the spirit of exploration and fearlessness through straightforward, driving rhythms and accessible melodies that build momentum. The piece moves with purpose and clarity, creating a sense of forward motion that appeals to young players who want to feel the energy they're creating.

Concert bands at the Grade 2 level looking for repertoire that works equally well in contest and concert settings. This is especially valuable for programs seeking pieces that give every section meaningful musical moments without requiring a large instrumentation.

• Balance the soli passages carefully so featured sections don't overshadow the ensemble; use those moments to highlight individual musicianship rather than let them disappear into the texture.
• Shape each melodic idea distinctly so the audience follows the piece's narrative arc from one section to the next.
• Anchor the rhythm section early in rehearsal to give the bold, energetic character a solid foundation the rest of the band can build on.
• Let the adventure breathe; resist the urge to push tempo when the music feels exciting. Clarity and precision will land harder than rushing.

Open a concert with this one to set an adventurous, engaging tone, or program it mid-show to shift energy after a contrasting selection. It also serves well as a festival selection since judges respond to writing that lets musicians perform with confidence at their level.

• Executing section soli with musical presence and control
• Sustaining rhythmic momentum through energetic passages
• Balancing solo and ensemble textures
• Connecting melodic phrases across sectional transitions
• Controlling dynamics in accessible ranges