Square - Mvt. 2 from American Dances: B-flat Bass Clarinet
Mvt. 2 from American Dances
By Robert W. Smith
Grade: 4.5
Item: 98-PC-RWS1935_BC
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Description
"American Dances" is a three movement suite originally composed for the Boston Pops Brass. Each movement features an American popular music genre. "Square" draws upon the country, western and bluegrass traditions as brought to the United States though settlers from the British Isles. Fun, interactive and delightfully challenging! When programmed with "Rag" (Mvt. 1) and "Swing" (Mvt. 3), the full "American Dances" suite is particularly effective in any concert setting.
Original Item#: RWS-1935-00
Original Item#: RWS-1935-00
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Additional Details
Series:
RWS - Symphony Band
Publisher:
RWS Music Company
SKU:
98-PC-RWS1935_BC
More about this title
About the Composer: Robert W. Smith
Robert W. Smith stands as one of today's most prolific voices in concert band and orchestral composition, with over 400 works published across his career. He holds degrees from Troy State University (AL) and the University of Miami (FL), and his compositions have been performed by ensembles worldwide, from North America to Europe, Australia, and Asia. His symphonic works like The Divine Comedy and The Odyssey, along with repertoire standards such as The Tempest, have become fixtures in band programs at all levels.
Beyond the concert hall, Smith's music has reached audiences through major television broadcasts, Olympic ceremonies, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and events ranging from state dinners to opening day at professional sports venues. As a guest conductor and clinician, he continues to work with ensembles across North America and internationally, bringing his distinctive voice and keen understanding of what engages both musicians and audiences.
Why we love this
Smith's gift for writing accessible yet musically substantial concert band music shines here. The movement captures authentic country and bluegrass character without sacrificing the playful sophistication that makes this suite work so well in concert; it's genuinely fun to conduct and perform while never feeling slight.
What to expect
Square dances and front-porch traditions come alive through Smith's orchestration, which evokes the warmth and directness of American folk music brought from the British Isles. The score breathes with genuine good humor and spirited character, inviting the band to discover the joy in straightforward, well-crafted musical storytelling.
Who it's for
Concert bands at the Grade 4.5 level who want repertoire that entertains without talking down to the ensemble. This movement works equally well for experienced groups seeking a fun programming addition or developing bands ready for material that demands musical maturity alongside technical accessibility.
How to get the most out of it
- Anchor the rhythm section's steady pulse in the opening; bluegrass energy comes from absolute clarity in the foundation, not rushing.
- Balance the fiddle-like solo lines in the woodwinds so they sing above the harmonic backdrop without losing the rustic, folk-rooted texture.
- Shape the phrase endings with a light, conversational touch; this style favors natural breathing and gentle rebound rather than heavy articulation.
How to use it
Program this as the centerpiece of a concert celebrating American musical traditions, especially when paired with Movements 1 and 3 of the full American Dances suite for maximum impact. It also stands alone beautifully as a concert opener or an engaging segue between more serious contemporary works, offering audiences a genuine breather while keeping their attention fully engaged.
Skills your students will build
- Folk-idiom phrasing and stylistic ornamentation specific to country and bluegrass traditions
- Balance between solo lines and harmonic accompaniment in a transparent texture
- Quick stylistic shifts and rhythmic precision in a playful, non-classical context
- Articulation clarity and rhythmic independence in sections carrying sustained harmonic support