The Chase: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Story's gift for narrative clarity shines here: the spy-thriller concept isn't just window dressing but drives the musical choices, keeping your band engaged from the downbeat. The optional accelerandi serve dual purpose as both dramatic storytelling tool and conductor-listening reinforcement, making this both entertaining and pedagogically smart.

The piece captures the pulse and urgency of a spy thriller, with orchestration that moves between characters and storylines. Excitement builds naturally through the optional accelerandi sections, creating moments where the band can feel the stakes rising alongside the audience.

Grade 2 concert bands seeking a work that delivers entertainment value without sacrificing musical substance. This sits perfectly for groups looking to program something accessible yet engaging for both young musicians and family audiences.

• Shape the accelerandi with clarity and precision. Mark specific tempo markings in your score and communicate the exact point where acceleration begins so your ensemble can follow your gesture rather than counting.
• Balance the programmatic storytelling against musical line. The 'espionage' concept frames the piece, but solid phrasing and attention to voice leading keep it from becoming mere gimmick.
• Use dynamics to build tension through the accelerated sections. Gradual incremental changes in volume will reinforce momentum better than sudden shifts.

Program this early in a concert to hook your audience with something fun and cinematic before settling into more traditional fare. It also works well as a festival selection where the narrative hook and optional technical challenge appeal to both judges and listeners.

• Following conductor cues during accelerated sections
• Maintaining ensemble cohesion while tempo shifts
• Executing controlled dynamics across an expanding range
• Responding to programmatic context in musical decision-making