Sword Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$45.00 USD

Sword Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Sword Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-29458
Price: 45.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Arr. Bob Phillips and Jerry Dennison

Grade: 1 (Very Easy)

Item: 00-29458

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Although this outstanding arrangement is accessible by even very young bands, every section has the melody at various times, and each variation is represented with a different texture and accompaniment, keeping the lively dance tune fresh and invigorating as the piece catapults toward the surprise presto ending! Thoughtful use of percussion adds to the colorful scoring. Students will love this high-energy delight from the Renaissance era. (1:20)

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Series: Alfred Debut Series

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 120

UPC: 038081319865

SKU: 00-29458

More about this title

About the Arranger: Bob Phillips

Bob Phillips brings four decades of experience building innovative ensemble programs. Since 1953, he has established himself as a composer and arranger whose work spans classical, folk, jazz, and world music styles. His prolific output includes over 200 published works for orchestras and bands, along with foundational curricula like Sound Innovations and the Philharmonic series (Jazz, Rock, Mariachi, Latin, and Fiddlers). An ASCAP award winner, his compositions and arrangements appear regularly at prestigious venues including the Midwest Clinic.

Phillips spent 27 years developing a string program in Saline, Michigan that grew to over 700 students and became a national model for blending classical training with eclectic musical styles. He founded the Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic, which performed over 80 shows annually and represented American music at the White House and international festivals. His influence extends through conducting roles at youth symphonies, all-state orchestras, and summer programs across the United States, as well as 12 years as resident conductor and arranger for the Wintergrass Festival in Seattle.

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Why we love this

Phillips and Dennison prove that Grade 1 accessibility does not mean musical compromise. Every section earns the melody during the course of this arrangement, creating genuine ownership and engagement for developing musicians across your band. The textural variety and the unexpected presto finale keep the piece energized from start to finish, making it a program standout that works equally well in concert or festival settings.

What to expect

This is music that moves. The lively dance character propels forward with infectious energy, buoyed by colorful percussion writing and fresh accompaniment textures that shift with each repetition of the melody. When that presto arrives near the end, the piece takes flight, leaving players and listeners alike caught up in the momentum.

Who it's for

Young concert bands in their first or second year of study will thrive with this arrangement. The Grade 1 scoring ensures every musician can participate meaningfully, while the rotating melody parts build confidence and section pride. Directors seeking high-energy repertoire that engages players and audiences alike will find this Renaissance-era dance a reliable winner.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the melody between sections as it rotates throughout the arrangement. Use this as an opportunity to develop confident leading in each section, even young ones.
Shape the dynamic contrasts between variations to highlight the different textures and accompaniments. This helps the piece feel fresh to the listener with each return of the tune.
Approach the presto ending with clarity and precision. The surprise element works best when the tempo shift is clean and the final phrase feels secure despite the increase in speed.
Give the percussion section ownership of their rhythmic patterns. Thoughtful articulation in the accompaniment makes the dance character sparkle.

How to use it

Open a concert with this piece to set a celebratory tone and establish immediate engagement with your audience. Its accessibility and theatrical closing make it ideal for young band festivals and demonstrations where you want to showcase what developing musicians can accomplish. Program it alongside other folk or world music selections to create a thematic concert section that explores traditional sources.