Struck by the Ree: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
(A Hero's Tale)
By William Owens
Grade: 2
Item: 00-PK-0008779
$70.00
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Description
Honoring the legacy of Yankton Sioux Chief Palaneapape ("Struck by the Ree") and his tireless efforts to foster peace, this musical tale portrays war, resolution, and escalating tensions. Thunderous percussion and strong melodic statements contrast with gentle and serene moments as William Owens pays homage to an important figure in American history. (2:45)
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Additional Details
Series:
MakeMusic Young Band
Publisher:
MakeMusic Publications
SKU:
00-PK-0008779
More about this title
About the Composer: William Owens
William Owens was born in Gary, Indiana, in 1963 and studied composition and music education at VanderCook College of Music, graduating in 1985. Over a 30-year career directing bands in Texas, he established himself as a prolific composer with more than 300 published works for concert band, string orchestra, and chamber ensembles. His music appears on festival and contest lists throughout North America and has been featured in music education textbooks as exemplary writing for young musicians.
Owens holds membership in ASCAP, the American Bandmasters Association, and Phi Beta Mu International. He has received commissions from major educational institutions and professional organizations, and was named a Distinguished Alumnus by VanderCook and a recipient of the Texas Bandmasters Association's Meritorious Achievement Award. Now retired from classroom teaching and based in Fort Worth, Texas, he continues to compose music that balances pedagogical clarity with genuine artistic expression.
Why we love this
Owens crafts a narrative arc that respects the historical subject while remaining musically engaging for Grade 2 players. The interplay between energetic percussion passages and lyrical melodic writing gives every section of the band something substantive to play, avoiding the hollow scoring that can plague accessible band music.
What to expect
The music moves between turbulent intensity and contemplative calm, mirroring the personal and political struggles it portrays. Thunderous percussion punctuates moments of repose, creating a sense of movement and resolution that feels neither oversimplified nor patronizing.
Who it's for
Concert bands at the Grade 2 level seeking repertoire with cultural and historical substance. Directors programming festival contests or thematic concerts will find this piece both accessible to developing ensembles and rich enough to satisfy audiences.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the percussion writing carefully during the "war" sections so that rhythmic drive supports rather than overwhelms the melodic voices.
- Shape the serene passages by encouraging sustained tone quality and steady air support; contrast will amplify the impact of the thunderous moments that follow.
- Work tempos deliberately during transitions between sections to clarify the programmatic intent without sacrificing musical flow.
How to use it
Pair this as a centerpiece in a concert exploring American history or Native American heritage. Its moderate length (2:45) and Grade 2 accessibility make it ideal for mid-season festival programming or as a showcase piece that demonstrates your band's musicianship without requiring advanced technical demands.
Skills your students will build
- Contrasting dynamics and articulation across different sections (percussion-driven versus lyrical writing)
- Maintaining steady ensemble balance when multiple percussion colors are active
- Interpreting programmatic intent through musical phrasing and tone color
- Reading and executing rhythmic passages with ceremonial or percussive character