On Fundy Bay: Concert Band Conductor Score

Propulsive and bright, with the forward momentum of a traditional march anchored by driving brass and percussion. The woodwind lines sparkle and dart across the texture while unexpected shifts into 6/8 create moments of rhythmic surprise that keep the piece from ever settling into predictability.

Conductors leading Grade 3-4 concert bands who want a march with character and rhythmic bite. This works well for ensembles solid enough to handle metric modulation and detailed percussion writing without losing focus.

• Balance the woodwind density against the brass. With lots of notes in the woodwind section, work for clarity in the upper voices without letting them overwhelm the harmonic foundation.
• Lock down the percussion parts early. The extended percussion section and rhythmic complexity need rehearsal time separate from the full band before the sections integrate.
• Mark the 6/8 sections clearly in your score and highlight them for the band. These meter shifts require intentional preparation and won't lock naturally without explicit attention.
• Shape the march with dynamic contrast rather than playing at one volume. The energetic character relies on the peaks and valleys you sculpt through rehearsal.

Program this as a concert opener or closer where you want energy and a clear sense of forward motion. It pairs well with slower, lyrical pieces on a mixed program and gives your students a chance to show off both precision and the excitement that comes from performing something with genuine rhythmic character.

• Reading mixed meters (4/4 and 6/8 within the same piece)
• Rhythmic precision and coordination in syncopated passages
• Balancing ensemble texture with independent woodwind lines
• Percussion ensemble independence and musicality
• Sustaining energy and musical shape through a march form