Synthesis: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: Synthesis: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-B1674S
Price: 8.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Brian Balmages

Grade: 2.5

Item: 98-B1674S

$8.00

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This bold fanfare uses comfortable ranges, yet achieves moments of great power, harmonic intricacy and excitement. The opening features massive percussion along with dialogues between brass and woodwinds. As the celebration ensues, rhythm becomes the focus and melodic ideas dance around. Engaging!

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Series: FJH Young Band

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 241444517338

SKU: 98-B1674S

More about this title

About the Composer: Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages has built an international reputation as a composer and conductor working across orchestral, band, and chamber repertoire. His works have been performed by ensembles ranging from professional orchestras to elementary school bands in venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Sydney Opera House. He received the A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association and won the 2020 NBA William D. Revelli Composition Contest. An elected member of the American Bandmasters Association, he holds the inaugural James Madison University Distinguished Alumni Award and was commissioned by the University of Miami to compose music for the inauguration of its 6th president.

As a conductor, Balmages maintains active engagements with all-state ensembles, university groups, and professional orchestras worldwide. He has guest conducted at the Midwest Clinic, Western International Band Clinic, and numerous regional and national conferences. His music was performed during the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service. He currently serves as Director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred and MakeMusic.

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Why we love this

Balmages knows exactly how to write for young bands without softening the impact. Synthesis delivers real excitement through textural variety and rhythmic energy rather than technical flashiness, making it equally satisfying to conduct and to hear. The percussion-driven opening immediately grabs attention, and the way harmonic color shifts between sections keeps both performers and audiences engaged throughout.

What to expect

Synthesis erupts with the confidence of a celebration, anchored by massive percussion and punctuated by spirited exchanges between brass and woodwinds. As it unfolds, the energy shifts to a rhythmic drive where melodies weave and dance around a steady pulse, creating moments of harmonic richness alongside pure forward motion.

Who it's for

Grade 2.5 concert bands ready to tackle a piece that balances approachable ranges with genuine musical substance. Ensembles preparing for festival or contest settings will find a work that stands out without demanding advanced technical chops.

How to get the most out of it

Establish the opening percussion statement with precision and weight; these hits anchor the entire fanfare and should feel authoritative without rushing.
Shape the brass and woodwind dialogue in the opening by bringing out each voice distinctly rather than blending them into a unified sound.
Keep the rhythmic section driving once the celebration takes hold; the momentum here is what carries the piece forward and keeps the energy high.
Let the melodic lines dance freely over the rhythmic foundation; this interplay between structure and movement is where the piece's personality shines.

How to use it

Program this at the opening of a concert to establish energy and capture immediate attention, or place it as the climax of a festival set where its combination of power and accessibility will resonate with both adjudicators and audiences. The uplifting character makes it an effective closer as well, leaving listeners on a high note.