Sun Cycles: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$75.00 USD

Sun Cycles: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Sun Cycles: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-B1525
Price: 75.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Brian Balmages

Grade: 2.5;3

Item: 98-B1525

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This innovative work is based on the Egyptian Sun God Ra and features a wealth of Middle Eastern percussion instruments. A mystical opening leads into the main theme of the work, representing the beginning of day. The second section, “Journey through the sky,” takes the listener on a journey with Ra as he flies through the clouds, following the sun's rotation. A dark passage represents his journey to the Underworld before the original theme returns once more to represent “Renewal.” Music then builds as an incredible series of modulating chords and textures all combine to bring the piece to a tremendous and powerful conclusion. Extremely compelling!

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Sun Cycles: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Series: FJH Young Band

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 674398230662

SKU: 98-B1525

More about this title

About the Composer: Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages has established himself as a composer and conductor working fluidly across orchestral, band, and chamber contexts. His works have reached audiences in some of the world's most celebrated venues, from Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House, performed by ensembles spanning professional orchestras to elementary school groups. He holds membership in the American Bandmasters Association and received the A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association, along with the 2020 NBA William D. Revelli Composition Contest prize for Love and Light.

As a conductor, Balmages maintains an active schedule guest conducting all-state and regional ensembles, university groups, and professional orchestras internationally. His music has appeared in significant national moments, including the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service. He currently serves as Director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred and MakeMusic, bringing his deep understanding of both composition and music education to his leadership role.

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Why we love this

Balmages captures the narrative arc of Ra's journey with genuine musical storytelling that keeps young musicians engaged from the mystical opening through the final powerful climax. The Middle Eastern percussion colors add textural sophistication that lifts this above typical Grade 2.5 fare without overwhelming players. Programming a work this musically ambitious at this level signals to students that their group deserves substantive repertoire.

What to expect

The piece unfolds like a vivid myth brought to sound. You begin in sacred stillness, venture into a sun-drenched sky, descend into shadowed depths, and emerge renewed. The harmonic architecture and percussion colors paint each section distinctly, creating a listening experience that feels orchestrally rich.

Who it's for

Bands at the 2.5-3 level ready to tackle genuinely creative programming with a programmatic story that resonates with younger players. Directors seeking contest or festival repertoire that combines musical substance with age-appropriate technical demands.

How to get the most out of it

Let the opening percussion establish the mystical atmosphere before the band enters; resist the urge to rush. This sets the emotional foundation for the entire journey.
Balance the modulating chord passages in the final section carefully. Each color shift should feel intentional, not muddy. The band's tuning awareness grows measurably through these textures.
Feature your percussion section thoughtfully, especially the Middle Eastern instruments. Give them solo moments that feel special without losing the band's focus on the larger narrative arc.
Mark the return of the original theme clearly in rehearsal. Many young musicians won't hear the connection without explicit attention, but recognizing the return deepens their understanding of form and thematic development.

How to use it

Place this as a centerpiece for a concert exploring world music and mythology, pairing it with other programmatic works at your level. It works equally well in contest rotation, where its narrative clarity and musical substance stand apart from more conventional show pieces.