The Dance Cover Image

The Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score

$15.00 USD
$15.00 USD
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The Dance Cover Image
The Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score

The Dance: Concert Band Conductor Score

Mvt. 1 from Three Conversations with Matisse

By Robert W. Smith

Grade: 4.5

Item: 98-RWS220301
$15.00
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Description
Inspired by the paintings of impressionist Henri Matisse and featuring the alto saxophone, "The Dance" is the first movement of "Three Conversations With Matisse." Along with the well known Matisse painting of the same name, this unique musical statement can be described as forbidding, menacing, tribal and ritualistic. Written for the accomplished saxophone soloist, the band accompaniment is well within the technical range of most high school, university and community ensembles. A powerful and welcome addition to the saxophone and concert band repertoire!

Original Item#: RWS-2203-01

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Additional Details
Series: RWS - Symphony Band
Publisher: RWS Music Company
ISBN10: 1-4706-9794-7
ISBN13: 978-1-4706-9794-5
UPC: 038081613796
SKU: 98-RWS220301

More about this title

About the Composer: Robert W. Smith

Robert W. Smith

Robert W. Smith stands among America's most frequently performed composers of concert band and orchestral music, with more than 400 published works in circulation. He holds degrees from Troy State University (AL) and the University of Miami (FL), and his compositions have traveled extensively across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. His symphonic works, including The Divine Comedy and The Odyssey, have become touchstones for ambitious ensembles worldwide.

Beyond the concert hall, Smith's music has reached audiences through television broadcasts, Olympic ceremonies, and major civic events. He maintains an active schedule as both a conductor and clinician, bringing his expertise to ensembles across the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, and Europe. His arrangements and original compositions continue to define the modern concert band and orchestra repertoire.

Why we love this

Smith crafted a sophisticated solo feature that respects the capabilities of accomplished saxophone players while keeping the band writing accessible for high school and university ensembles. The impressionist inspiration creates a genuinely distinctive sound world for concert programming, offering directors a work that stands apart from standard Grade 4.5 repertoire through both its musical character and performance context.

What to expect

A ritualistic incantation painted in sound, with the alto saxophone cutting through a darkly textured band palette. The work breathes with the weight and mystery of Matisse's canvas, turning what could be purely virtuosic display into something genuinely unsettling and artistic.

Who it's for

Accomplished saxophone soloists who are ready to tackle extended technical passages and carry a substantial musical statement. This score suits high school concert bands, university ensembles, and community bands seeking a feature work that balances soloist virtuosity with ensemble accessibility.

How to get the most out of it

  • Shape the alto saxophone line with attention to the impressionist color palette; avoid excessive vibrato that obscures the painting-like quality Smith intended. The soloist should lead with clarity rather than volume.
  • Balance the band accompaniment so it supports rather than competes with the saxophone solo. The 'forbidding, menacing' character emerges from ensemble restraint paired with the soloist's confident delivery.
  • Prepare the band for the ritualistic sections by locking in rhythmic precision; tribal elements depend on the ensemble moving as one organism beneath the solo line.
  • Use the recorded accompaniment (if available through your edition) to allow the saxophone soloist multiple rehearsals at tempo with a steady ensemble foundation.

How to use it

Feature this as a centerpiece work in a concert that explores artistic relationships between visual and musical expression. Its Grade 4.5 difficulty and contest-eligible status make it equally valuable for spring festival competition or a feature concert highlighting your advanced soloist.

Skills your students will build

  • Balancing a solo line against ensemble accompaniment without sacrificing clarity
  • Executing impressionistic phrasing and tonal control on the alto saxophone
  • Responding to asymmetrical rhythmic figures and tribal percussion elements
  • Supporting a featured soloist with precise ensemble rhythm and dynamics

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