Through Courageous Eyes: E-flat Alto Saxophone 1
By Brian Balmages
Grade: 2.5
Item: 98-PC-DB1155_AX1
$7.00
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Description
This innovative work makes use of an optional piano part that is most likely playable by someone already in the band. It was written in honor of Matt Rhodes, a student at John T. Baker Middle (Damascus, MD), who passed away during a battle with spina bifida. It represents his kindness, courage, and determination despite his confinement to a wheelchair. An opening ethereal section and chorale moves into an exciting portrayal of life which concludes with a humorous ending that was very characteristic of Matt. A very musical composition that teaches much more than notes. (4:50)
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Additional Details
Series:
FJH Young Band
Publisher:
The FJH Music Company, Inc.
SKU:
98-PC-DB1155_AX1
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 on an international stage. His works have been premiered and performed by ensembles ranging from professional orchestras to school bands in iconic venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Sydney Opera House. He holds membership in the American Bandmasters Association and received the A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association; his composition Love and Light won the 2020 NBA William D. Revelli Composition Contest.
Balmages has received commissions from major institutions and his music was performed during the 2013 Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service. As a guest conductor, he regularly appears at all-state festivals, regional ensembles, and university and professional groups worldwide, including engagements at the Midwest Clinic and Western International Band Clinic. He currently serves as Director of MakeMusic Publications and Digital Education for Alfred and MakeMusic.
Why we love this
Balmages crafts a piece that honors real sacrifice and resilience while remaining genuinely musical and engaging for young performers. The structure moves from introspective to celebratory without resorting to sentiment, and the inclusion of an optional piano part that many bands can already cover shows practical wisdom about school music resources. The emotional honesty combined with humor makes this work meaningful to conduct and rewarding to teach.
What to expect
The piece opens with an ethereal, vulnerable quality that speaks to quiet strength, then moves through a chorale that deepens the reflection. The music then brightens and accelerates into an energetic portrayal of life and vitality, culminating in a moment of humor that feels earned rather than forced.
Who it's for
Concert bands at the Grade 2.5 level looking for repertoire with substance beyond technical display. Directors seeking works that engage students emotionally and teach ensemble musicianship while remaining accessible to developing players.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the opening ethereal section with space and breath; avoid rushing through silence, as the quieter moments establish the emotional foundation before the chorale builds.
- Balance the optional piano part so it supports without overshadowing the band; if the pianist is an ensemble member, this becomes an opportunity to highlight another musician in the ensemble.
- Find the character shift into the exciting middle section by securing clear articulation and forward motion in the woodwinds and brass, creating contrast with the contemplative opening.
- Commit fully to the humorous ending; let the band feel the shift in tone so the conclusion lands as the composition intends rather than trailing away.
How to use it
Program this as a concert centerpiece where it can anchor a thematic program about resilience, courage, or community. The five-minute duration and emotional arc make it equally effective as a festival selection where audiences respond to music with genuine human connection.
Skills your students will build
- Phrasing and shaping within a slow, chorale-based section
- Executing style changes across contrasting musical sections (ethereal, chorale, energetic, humorous)
- Balancing ensemble sound while an optional piano part is present
- Conveying emotional content and character through instrumental performance
- Ensemble intonation and blend in sustained harmonic passages