On the Rising Winds: Concert Band Conductor Score

Smith captures something rarely found in Grade 2 repertoire: genuine theatrical storytelling without sacrificing musicality or technical accessibility. The programmatic arc of takeoff and ascent feels organic rather than gimmicky, built on transparent orchestration that lets young musicians hear exactly what they're contributing to the larger narrative.

The opening whispers like wind across empty fields before giving way to the unmistakable joy of movement and altitude. Smith builds momentum gradually, letting the countryside unfold beneath swelling harmonies and brightening orchestration that captures both wonder and the exhilaration of flight.

Conductors looking for a Grade 2 piece with genuine character and program appeal. This works especially well for bands building confidence in dynamic control and atmospheric storytelling, or for concerts that benefit from a thematic anchor.

• Balance the opening wind textures carefully; the mystery of the introduction depends on restraint. Encourage players to listen across sections rather than focus inward.
• Shape the dynamic arc toward the exuberant flight section deliberately. Mark a clear emotional shift in your conducting at that transition point.
• Let the percussion create atmosphere in the beginning without rushing. These early measures set up everything that follows.
• Consider staging: a soloist or small group can suggest the aircraft's ascent visually, giving the band something concrete to watch and follow.

Position this early in a concert to establish an engaging narrative arc for the audience. Its accessible difficulty and vivid imagery make it an ideal opener that draws listeners in immediately, or pair it with other landscape-inspired works to create a themed program section.

• Sustained dynamic control across an extended phrase
• Balance between wind sections creating layered textures
• Following programmatic arc and emotional shape rather than technical difficulty alone
• Listening for atmospheric effect in ensemble playing
• Breath management in extended soft passages