Salute to Broadway: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Strommen's gift for orchestration transforms these Broadway classics into genuinely engaging concert band textures rather than thin transcriptions. The Grade 3 difficulty level never feels patronizing; instead, it opens these sophisticated standards to ensembles that might otherwise skip this repertoire entirely. This is sophisticated pop arranging that respects both the source material and your players' musicianship.

Warm, nostalgic, and thoroughly accessible without sacrificing musical depth. The arrangements breathe with the ease and elegance of the original songs, offering that instantly gratifying sensation of music that feels both familiar and freshly orchestrated.

Concert bands in the intermediate range seeking accessible yet musically substantial repertoire that resonates with diverse audiences. This collection works equally well for directors building a spring pops program or those looking to bridge classical and popular traditions in a single concert.

• Balance the melodic lines carefully across sections. These tunes are known for their singability, so ensure the primary melody always projects clearly even when supported by countermelodies in the lower voices.
• Shape the phrasing the way a vocalist would. Broadway standards thrive on rubato and breathing; avoid treating the score as metronomic.
• Use the key changes and section transitions as dramatic moments. Strommen typically sets them up smoothly, but they need subtle emphasis to land with the audience.
• Allow the rhythm section freedom within the ensemble texture. These songs have inherent swing and lilt; a rigid approach will drain their character.

Program this as the centerpiece of a pops or popular standards concert, or use it strategically in a mixed program to draw in community members less familiar with traditional band repertoire. The variety of styles within the collection also makes it effective as individual selections at shorter events, allowing you to program just two or three numbers rather than the full suite.

• Phrasing and musical expression within popular song structures
• Sectional independence while maintaining unified ensemble texture
• Stylistic flexibility and adaptation to non-classical idioms
• Interpretation of rubato and rhythmic freedom in written arrangements
• Balancing melody and accompaniment within full band voicing