The U.S. Field Artillery: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

$62.00 USD

The U.S. Field Artillery: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Name: The U.S. Field Artillery: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-44903
Price: 62.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Incorporating "The Army Song"

By John Philip Sousa / arr. Douglas E. Wagner

Grade: 2 (Easy)

Item: 00-44903

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Composed in 1917, "the official march of the United States Army" is one of Sousa's most frequently performed titles. It's unique in that it uses a familiar tune for the trio theme; in this case, "The Army Song." The original thematic material has been diligently preserved while scored to be accessible to the developing band. (2:30)

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Series: Belwin Young Band

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 236

UPC: 038081516134

SKU: 00-44903

More about this title

About the Composer: John Philip Sousa

John Philip Sousa (1854-1932) shaped American band music as both a composer and conductor. His marches became the soundtrack to American civic life, performed at parades, patriotic ceremonies, and concert halls across the country. Sousa's gift for memorable melody and his mastery of orchestration for wind instruments established the concert band as a serious ensemble capable of artistic expression beyond military function.

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Why we love this

This arrangement strips away none of the march's grandeur while keeping the technical demands within reach of developing musicians. The decision to incorporate "The Army Song" into the trio gives students an accessible entry point to recognizing how composers build larger works from familiar material. You'll find it one of the most satisfying patriotic pieces to rehearse with Grade 2 bands because the orchestration is transparent enough to hear individual parts, yet still sounds impressive in performance.

What to expect

Stately and ceremonial, with the confident stride of a military procession. The familiar melody in the trio brings a moment of recognition and warmth, creating a natural arc from formal opening through an almost hymn-like middle section.

Who it's for

Grade 2 concert bands seeking a patriotic standard that doesn't sacrifice musicality for accessibility. Directors programming summer concerts, Fourth of July performances, or patriotic-themed festivals will find an arrangement that respects both Sousa's original conception and the ability level of developing ensembles.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the main theme with gentle dynamic swell rather than playing it straight; Sousa's marches breathe with the phrasing of a vocal melody
Let the trio settle into a clearer articulation once "The Army Song" enters; the contrast between sections comes partly from texture and attack
Keep the tempo steady without rushing; Grade 2 players often accelerate when they gain confidence, and that undermines the march's stately character
Balance the countermelody voices in the accompaniment so the main tune registers clearly even when the band is playing all parts together

How to use it

Program this as an opener or closer to set a patriotic or ceremonial tone for your concert. It pairs naturally with other Americana repertoire and works equally well as a standalone feature or bookended with other marches to create a mini-patriotic suite.