Symphony on Themes of John Philip Sousa, Mvt. 3 after "Fairest of the Fair": Concert Band Conductor Score

Hearshen captures everything that makes Sousa's melodies irresistible while constructing something entirely new in symphonic form. The third movement's scherzo character keeps the band engaged with constant textural shifts and clever reorchestrations that reveal fresh angles on a familiar march tune. This is the kind of work that reminds conductors why programming Sousa belongs in serious concert programming, not just parades.

Light, spirited, and cleverly orchestrated, this scherzo-like movement dances through Sousa's beloved "Fairest of the Fair" with unexpected harmonic turns and playful rhythmic twists. The constant give-and-take between instrumental families creates a buoyant, conversational energy that keeps the audience and players alike on their toes.

Conductors leading Grade 5 concert bands who want to program Sousa at a sophisticated level and musicians ready for the textural independence and harmonic awareness this movement demands. It works equally well as a standalone concert piece or as part of the complete symphony.

• Balance the quick interplay between sections carefully; many voices carry thematic material simultaneously, and clarity matters more than volume. Use sectional rehearsals to isolate individual voice parts before bringing them together.
• Mark the key changes clearly on all parts beforehand. The harmonic shifts happen fast enough that players need visual cues to stay locked in.
• Establish a steady tempo for the scherzo character early. The rhythmic figures are fresh but depend on precise ensemble pulse to land their humor and momentum.

Program this as a contrast piece in a concert built around American composers, or pair it with other movements from the full symphony to create a complete symphonic statement. Its scherzo character also makes it an engaging opener or closer that showcases your band's artistry without demanding the brass endurance of a full march.

• Tracking rapid key changes across multiple phrases
• Balancing independent melodic lines within a polyphonic texture
• Maintaining rhythmic precision through syncopated and irregular figures
• Listening for harmonic function beyond diatonic progressions
• Coordinating sectional independence with ensemble cohesion