The Lightning Spirit: Concert Band Conductor Score

$13.00 USD

The Lightning Spirit: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: The Lightning Spirit: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-B1261S
Price: 13.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Roland Barrett

Grade: 2

Item: 98-B1261S

$13.00

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The Lightning Spirit is based on the Aboriginal legend of Namarrkon, who sat in the clouds and hurled lightning bolts at the earth below. It makes use of a thunder sheet, a large sheet of aluminum available at most building supply stores. A contrasting lyrical section lets you focus on musicality with sweeping lines and soaring countermelodies. Incredible writing and effects bring the power of lightning right into your concert hall!

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Series: FJH Young Band

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 241444476130

SKU: 98-B1261S

More about this title

About the Composer: Roland Barrett

Roland Barrett has shaped multiple generations of young musicians through his dual role as educator and composer. Since joining the University of Oklahoma's faculty in 2001, he has taught theory and composition to undergraduate and graduate students while continuing to arrange music for the Pride of Oklahoma marching band. His catalog includes over two hundred published works for symphonic band, chamber groups, and marching ensembles, performed by the Dallas Wind Symphony, All-State bands, and featured on NPR and at major national conventions including the Midwest Band & Orchestra Convention and International Trumpet Guild gatherings.

Recognized nationally for his contributions to wind band literature, Barrett has received multiple ASCAP Plus awards for his compositions. His career reflects a deep commitment to expanding the repertoire available to student musicians at all levels while maintaining the highest standards of musical craftsmanship.

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Why we love this

Barrett crafts a vivid narrative arc here, moving from raw elemental power to genuine lyrical substance. The thunder sheet becomes not just a special effect but an integral part of the storytelling, allowing Grade 2 bands to tackle evocative program music without compromising musicianship. Directors appreciate how the contrasting sections give students real opportunities to shape phrase and balance ensemble sound.

What to expect

The piece launches into dramatic turbulence as Namarrkon commands the sky, with the thunder sheet cutting through the band's texture like actual lightning splitting clouds. When the music shifts toward lyricism, the intensity dissolves into something soaring and introspective, letting the band breathe before returning to the primal power of the storm.

Who it's for

Grade 2 concert bands seeking engaging repertoire that connects to cultural traditions while building musicianship. Directors programming festivals or contests will find a piece that appeals to audiences and adjudicators alike, combining accessibility with genuine artistic substance.

How to get the most out of it

Establish a consistent cue system for the thunder sheet player well before performance. This section demands precise ensemble listening, so rehearse the conductor's preparation and release signals until they become automatic.
Balance the contrasting lyrical section by pulling back dynamic intensity elsewhere in the band; these sweeping lines deserve space and clarity to resonate.
Treat the thunder sheet strikes as compositional moments, not novelties. Work with your percussionist on attack quality and decay so each strike serves the musical phrase rather than distracting from it.

How to use it

This works beautifully as a concert opener or closer, giving you a high-impact moment that grabs audience attention. It pairs well alongside other multicultural selections or contemporary pieces, and its contest appeal makes it a smart choice for spring festival programming where a Grade 2 band can compete with confidence.