Sussex Anthem: Concert Band Conductor Score

Bernotas understands that young musicians need repertoire that feels meaningful, not just easy. "Sussex Anthem" delivers the patriotic character and memorable melody that capture an audience's attention while remaining genuinely accessible at Grade 1.5. The optional choir feature gives you flexibility to scale the arrangement to your resources, whether you're fielding a full band with singers or a smaller concert band.

Straightforward and dignified, with a patriotic warmth that avoids bombast. The memorable melody anchors the piece while clear, supportive harmonies create a sense of unity and shared purpose, evoking pride without requiring technical fireworks.

Beginning to early intermediate concert bands and directors seeking accessible yet heartfelt repertoire for recognition concerts, end-of-year celebrations, or festival programming. Works equally well as a standalone tribute or as part of a concert that honors student musicians and educators.

• Shape the melodic phrases with subtle dynamic shaping rather than sudden contrasts; at this level, students respond well to long-line breathing and sustained tone quality that lets the memorable melody sing.
• If using the optional choir, rehearse the band and singers separately first to establish their respective parts securely, then bring them together with the conductor score clearly defining where voices blend and where instruments support underneath.
• Balance the patriotic character without overplaying; this piece succeeds through honest execution and controlled enthusiasm rather than aggressive dynamics.

Program this as a concert opener to set a celebratory, inclusive tone, or close a concert with it to honor both your musicians and the educators who support them. The optional choir arrangement makes it especially effective when you want to involve non-band singers in a meaningful way or celebrate a broader school music community.

• Sustaining long melodic phrases with consistent tone and breath support
• Balancing melody and accompaniment voices
• Reading and executing patriotic or ceremonial character in an ensemble context
• Coordination between winds and (when applicable) vocal parts