Procession for a New Day: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Swearingen understands that a processional needs both dignity and forward momentum, and he delivers both here without resorting to bombast. The program notes packed with teaching and performance guidance show he's thinking like a director, not just a composer, which means you'll have concrete support when rehearsing this work.

Stately and purposeful, with an underlying sense of reverence. The music unfolds with clarity and warmth, creating an atmosphere of respect and quiet confidence rather than pomp.

Beginning to early intermediate concert bands looking for a substantial processional that works for contest festivals or ceremonial concert openings. This sits perfectly in the Grade 1.5 range, offering musical dignity without demanding advanced technical facility from any section.

• Establish a steady, unhurried tempo from the opening; processionals fail when conductors rush them.
• Balance the inner voices carefully so the harmonic progression supports rather than obscures the main line.
• Shape phrases with subtle dynamic gradations rather than sudden changes to maintain the work's processional character.
• Reference Swearingen's program notes early in rehearsal to help students understand the inspirational intent behind the music.

Open a formal concert with this processional, or use it as the centerpiece of a tribute program honoring community service and first responders. Its moderate length and ceremonial character also make it suitable for festival competition where you need a confident opening statement.

• Sustaining long tones with consistent tone quality and intonation
• Reading and executing smooth dynamic curves across phrases
• Balancing harmonic voices in chorale-style textures
• Maintaining steady pulse in processional tempos
• Blending articulation across the ensemble in lyrical writing