Sketches on a Kentucky Hymn Tune: Score
By Todd Stalter
Grade: 2.5 (Medium Easy)
Item: 00-PR-0000815
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Description
Sketches on a Kentucky Hymn Tune is based on the hymn "Salvation." The composer was drawn to this type of tune because if its artful simplicity and interesting harmony. There are many opportunities throughout the interior sections of the piece to shape phrases and play expressively, and the Presto ending should be quite fast and energetic, but taken only as fast as the players can play with the proper articulation and control.
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Additional Details
Series:
Young Symphonic
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
236
SKU:
00-PR-0000815
More about this title
About the Composer: Todd Stalter
Todd Stalter built his reputation over 34 years as Director of Bands at Eureka High School in Illinois, where his ensembles earned 16 state marching championships, consistent superior ratings at IHSA contests, and invitations to perform at Orchestra Hall and Walt Disney World. His work extends beyond the high school podium: he has conducted All-State Bands in Georgia and Delaware, led regional honor bands, and maintained an active schedule as both adjudicator and clinician across Illinois and beyond.
As a composer, Stalter's band and string orchestra works circulate nationally and internationally, with many selections appearing on state contest and festival lists. His pieces are included in the educational resource "Teaching Music Through Performance in Band," published by GIA. Stalter holds degrees in Music Education and Trumpet Performance from Illinois State University, where he studied conducting with Dr. Stephen K. Steele.
Why we love this
Stalter anchors this piece in a genuine hymn tune, but resists the urge to simply arrange it straight. Instead, he sketches variations that let your ensemble discover the tune's harmonic richness and rhythmic possibilities, all at a grade level that feels genuinely accessible rather than simplified. The ending gives you exactly what developing bands need: a chance to pull off fast, clean articulation and control without the technical demands that derail Presto sections.
What to expect
The piece moves between contemplative, hymn-like passages with artful harmonic turns and brighter, more energetic sections that honor the tune's directness. There is room for warmth and careful phrasing throughout, building toward a snappy, precise finale that feels earned rather than rushed.
Who it's for
This work sits comfortably in the hands of Grade 2.5 concert bands with solid fundamentals and a willingness to think expressively. Directors programming a mix of sacred and patriotic literature will find it connects well with both contexts, and it does not require advanced soloists or unusual instrumentation.
How to get the most out of it
- Locate the hymn tune's statements throughout the interior sections and bring them into focus; surrounding material should support rather than compete with these moments.
- Shape phrases with attention to Stalter's harmonic movement, particularly through chord changes that may catch players off guard if taken too literally.
- Approach the Presto ending as a test of articulation clarity and ensemble precision rather than a race; establish a tempo your players can execute cleanly before rehearsal ends.
How to use it
Program this as the centerpiece of a concert exploring American hymn traditions, or as a bridge between your formal concert section and lighter fare. It works especially well in spring programming when bands are ready to demonstrate both musical maturity and rhythmic control.
Skills your students will build
- Phrasing and shaping in moderate-to-slow tempos
- Harmonic listening and voice leading awareness
- Fast, controlled articulation in Presto sections
- Balancing melody and accompaniment in varied textures