The Cajun Navy: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$70.00 USD

The Cajun Navy: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: The Cajun Navy: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-51838
Price: 70.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Michael Story

Grade: 2

Item: 00-51838

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The Cajun Navy is a large group of volunteer Louisiana boat owners who are well-known because of their heroic rescue efforts after hurricanes and floods. Formed in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina's devastation, the group has not only aided in Louisiana but also in other states, including Texas, North Carolina, and Florida.

Michael Story's The Cajun Navy was written to honor these brave men and women. The piece utilizes original music as well as two Cajun folk songs: "Tout Un Beau Soir En Me Promenant" and "Jolie Blonde," which is considered to be the Cajun national anthem due to its widespread popularity. Here is a very unique piece worthy of your next concert. (2:30)

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Series: Belwin Young Band

Publisher: Alfred Music

ISBN10: 1-4706-7497-1

ISBN13: 978-1-4706-7497-7

UPC: 038081597232

SKU: 00-51838

More about this title

About the Composer: Michael Story

Michael Story is a prolific composer and arranger whose wind band works have become staples in school and community ensembles across North America. His compositions span multiple difficulty levels, from accessible concert band pieces to challenging symphonic works, all marked by clear orchestration, memorable melodies, and programs that resonate with performers and audiences alike.

Story's commitment to music education is evident in his thoughtful approach to writing for young musicians. His pieces consistently balance technical development with musical engagement, making them reliable choices for festivals, contests, and concert programming at schools and universities.

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Why we love this

Story captures the spirit of civic heroism without resorting to bombast. By anchoring the piece in authentic Cajun folk material, particularly "Jolie Blonde," he grounds the narrative in genuine cultural voice rather than generic patriotic gestures. The result is programmatic music that respects both its subject and your ensemble's musicianship.

What to expect

The music evokes the determination and generosity of ordinary people responding to extraordinary circumstances. Moments of buoyancy and forward motion alternate with passages that suggest both the weight of the disaster and the quiet strength of those who answered the call. The Cajun folk melodies lend warmth and familiarity to the narrative.

Who it's for

This piece works beautifully for concert bands at the middle school and early high school level seeking repertoire with genuine substance and cultural specificity. Directors programming concerts around themes of community, resilience, or American stories will find an authentic vehicle that engages both musicians and audiences.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the original material with the folk song quotations. The Cajun melodies should feel integrated into the overall architecture, not inserted as standalone moments. Rehearse transitions carefully so the piece breathes as a unified statement.
Pay attention to the rhythmic character of the folk material. Cajun music has a particular lilt and swing; let your ensemble feel that pulse even as you maintain precise ensemble control.
The 2:30 duration means every structural choice lands with purpose. Shape the arc from opening through the climax to final resolution so that the narrative arc of rescue and resilience comes through clearly.

How to use it

Schedule this as a centerpiece for a concert exploring community heroes, disaster response, or regional American music traditions. It pairs effectively with other programmatic band works or multicultural repertoire. The accessible Grade 2 level and contest viability make it ideal for spring concerts or festival season programming.