Sound Innovations for Concert Band: Ensemble Development for Intermediate Concert Band: Percussion 2 Book

This book gives percussion 2 players a systematic, comprehensive pathway through exercises and chorales that builds genuine musical independence rather than filler parts. The 70+ chorales by composers like Robert Sheldon, Andrew Boysen, and Michael Story provide substantive musicianship work without abandoning technical development. Educators appreciate having multiple exercises at each level within the same key, so you can choose the right challenge for your section without exhausting a single approach.

A percussion section using this book discovers that their parts matter musically. The exercises build confidence through manageable progressions, while the chorales from respected concert band composers offer the satisfaction of playing genuine repertoire, not simplified accompaniment.

Percussion 2 players in intermediate concert bands who are ready to develop musicianship beyond their first few years and need exercises designed specifically for their instrumentation and ability level. This book works well for sections looking to strengthen both technical control and collaborative listening within a full ensemble context.

• Study the style and tempo markings closely before the first rehearsal; many chorales specify exactly how articulation and dynamics shape the character, while others intentionally leave room for your interpretation based on the ensemble's needs.
• Balance blend with the upper voices by listening critically to your dynamic placement; the marked dynamics guide musicianship, not just volume.
• Approach technically demanding exercises as opportunities to refine consistency within your part, not to race through them; precision in isolated passages transfers directly to chorale performance.

Rotate through the exercises organized by key to complement your concert repertoire without repeating the same technical focus; when your band is preparing a piece in B-flat, assign the relevant exercises from that key section for targeted skill work. The chorales work beautifully as warm-up or closing material in rehearsal, or as standalone repertoire for smaller sectional performances and student recitals.

• Reading and executing varied articulations and dynamic markings within ensemble context
• Maintaining consistent rhythmic precision across different meters and tempos
• Balancing part independence with ensemble blend and listening
• Facility with exercises grouped by key to support concert band repertoire
• Musicianship through chorale playing that emphasizes phrasing and style