Three Celtic Dances: Concert Band Conductor Score

$20.00 USD

Three Celtic Dances: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: Three Celtic Dances: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-B1358S
Price: 20.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Brian Balmages

Grade: 4

Item: 98-B1358S

$20.00

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One moment…

This three-movement work is based on various Scottish dance forms and includes a combination of authentic and original music. The opening Reel begins with a light-hearted presentation of the melody in typical Scottish fashion. As the movement develops, rhythms and harmonies become more intense and driving before a burst of percussion brings it to a sudden close. The second movement, Air, uses solo alto saxophone in a lush and lyrical setting of Well May I Behold My Faithful Brown-Hair'd Maid. The theme, presented in two contrasting settings, becomes extremely powerful with soaring countermelodies before returning to the tranquility of the opening. The final movement, Jig, makes use of expansive percussion as it celebrates one of the most well-known Celtic dance forms. The composer layers themes and various sounds throughout as the work builds to a furious conclusion supported by an enormous battery of percussion. Thrilling!

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Series: FJH Symphonic Band

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

UPC: 241444485804

SKU: 98-B1358S

More about this title

About the Composer: Brian Balmages

Brian Balmages has established himself as a composer and conductor working across orchestral, band, and chamber repertoires with equal fluency. His works have been performed worldwide by ensembles ranging from professional orchestras to school groups in venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Sydney Opera House. He received the A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association and won the 2020 NBA William D. Revelli Composition Contest for Love and Light. An elected member of the American Bandmasters Association, Balmages was honored with the inaugural James Madison University Distinguished Alumni Award from the School of Visual and Performing Arts.

As a conductor, Balmages maintains regular engagements with all-state ensembles, university groups, and professional orchestras internationally. He has served as a guest conductor at the Midwest Clinic, Western International Band Clinic, and numerous state conferences. His work has been performed at significant national events, including the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service. Currently, he serves as Director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred and MakeMusic.

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Why we love this

Balmages captures the essence of Scottish dance traditions while writing idiomatically for band at a Grade 4 level that doesn't sacrifice musical substance. The three-movement arc moves deftly from rhythmic exuberance to lyrical introspection to celebratory climax, giving your ensemble rewarding contrasts to explore. This is the kind of concert piece that engages both players and audiences with authentic cultural material transformed into genuinely exciting band writing.

What to expect

The opening Reel bounces with Scottish spirit, light and playful as the melody dances across the band before building into something grittier and more propulsive. The Air shifts into hushed reverence, with that alto saxophone voice floating over cushioned harmonies in a moment of genuine tenderness. Then the Jig erupts, all energy and celebration, with percussion painting the landscape as themes layer and accelerate toward a furious, glorious finish.

Who it's for

Directors programming a Grade 4 concert band who want to feature authentic cultural content without sacrificing musicianship or engagement. This score works well for ensembles with a strong alto saxophone section and capable percussion players ready to handle expanded instrumentation. It appeals equally to audiences who enjoy folk-inspired repertoire and musicians seeking substantial concert literature at an accessible level.

How to get the most out of it

Balance the opening Reel's light presentation with clarity in the ensemble; as the movement intensifies, allow the driving rhythms to build naturally without forcing the tempo.
Feature the alto saxophone soloist in the Air movement with a warm, singing tone; the lush harmonic backdrop requires careful sectional tuning to support the solo's lyricism.
Shape the percussion layering in the Jig as architectural rather than chaotic; each percussion entrance should articulate the thematic development rather than overwhelm it.
Prepare for the sudden close of the first movement and the dramatic dynamic contrasts in the finale by establishing clear conducting cues with your rhythm section.

How to use it

Open a concert with the Reel's immediate accessibility and rhythmic appeal to capture audience attention early. Alternatively, use the entire three-movement work as a substantial second-half offering that showcases your band's range across contrasting styles and textures. The piece fits naturally into programs centered on folk traditions, world music, or as a vibrant conclusion to a concert exploring cultural themes.