Silversides: Baritone / Euphonium

Owens crafts a Grade 2 work that commands attention without overwhelming young players. The programmatic narrative of the USS Silversides gives students a vivid dramatic arc to perform, making this ideal for conductors seeking engaging contest material that also translates powerfully in concert settings. The piece balances accessibility with genuine musical substance, which explains its presence on festival lists nationwide.

Haunting and immersive, the opening pulls listeners into the depths as a submarine begins its dangerous mission. Energy builds through a visceral middle section that captures conflict and tension, finally erupting into a vivid, powerful finale that honors the heroism of the vessel and her crew. The piece moves with dramatic purpose rather than bombast, making it both thrilling to perform and engaging to hear.

Young bands at the Grade 2 level who are ready to engage with programmatic music and contest repertoire. This work works well for ensembles seeking a concert piece with dramatic appeal that also serves festival and competition seasons. Students will find the musical storytelling motivating and the technical demands appropriate for this developmental level.

• Shape the opening submersion passage with control and deliberate pacing; resist rushing this moment, as it establishes the story's foundation and sets the haunting tone throughout.
• Bring clarity to the dramatic middle section by ensuring proper balance between sections; clarify who carries thematic material and support them without overwhelming the texture.
• Drive toward the fiery closing with building intensity and unified articulation across the full band; lock the section timing in this section early in rehearsals so the momentum feels inevitable rather than forced.

Program this on a concert where you want a centerpiece that balances your lighter and heavier works. Its Grade 2 accessibility and programmatic narrative make it particularly effective in mixed-level concerts or on contest programs where judges value both musicianship and storytelling. The dramatic arc also works well as a transition piece, bridging lighter opening selections with more demanding closing works.

• Phrasing and shaping over longer musical ideas
• Dynamic control and contrast between sections
• Sustaining ensemble focus during dramatic transitions
• Sectional balance and clarity of voicing
• Performing music with programmatic intent