Semper Melior: Concert Band Conductor Score

Fannin captures the spirit of student growth in a piece that actually asks something musically interesting of developing bands. The rhythmic interplay between 6/8 and 3/4 time signatures keeps students engaged in their parts rather than coasting through familiar patterns, and the E-flat major woodwind writing sits perfectly in the instrument ranges where young players build facility without strain.

The piece exudes the forward momentum implied by its title. Shifting between cut time and triple meter creates a sense of perpetual growth, as if the band is constantly refining itself. There's energy without frenzy, and the E-flat major tonality keeps the overall character bright and affirmative.

This score fits squarely in the repertoire for Grade 2.5 concert bands working toward stronger rhythmic independence and cleaner scalar technique across the woodwinds. It serves well for groups moving beyond march-based fundamentals into more contemporary concert literature while staying accessible to developing ensembles.

• Establish the metric modulation between 6/8 and 3/4 sections clearly in early rehearsals; have students conduct the subdivision in both meters so the shift feels intentional rather than disorienting.
• Give the woodwind sections independent rehearsal time on the scalar passages; these runs are idiomatic for each instrument family and reward attention to clarity and evenness of articulation.
• Balance the work between sections in ensemble rehearsals so the full band gels without any part dominating. Fannin's scoring distributes melodic and rhythmic material broadly.
• Let the piece breathe during transitions between meter changes. Resist the urge to rush into the next section; silence and space make the arrival feel earned.

Program this as a concert opener or early set piece to establish musicianship and showcase rhythmic sophistication to the audience. It also works effectively in contest or festival settings where adjudicators value developmental clarity and musical intent at the Grade 2.5 level.

• Reading and performing shifting 6/8 and 3/4 meters with metric clarity
• Playing scalar passages in E-flat major across the woodwind section with evenness and precision
• Maintaining ensemble rhythmic cohesion during meter transitions
• Sustaining independent part responsibility in a concert band texture
• Understanding how rhythmic contrast drives formal structure in contemporary band writing