Two Appalachian Songs: Concert Band Conductor Score

Story's arrangement respects the character of each folk melody while creating genuine musical contrast between the two songs. The piece teaches articulation and style change without overwhelming first-year players, and the brief 1:42 duration means students experience a complete musical statement rather than a fragment.

The suite opens with heartfelt, singing lyricism in "Once I Had a Sweetheart," then pivots into the bright, rhythmic energy of "Cindy." Together they showcase the expressive range available to young musicians working with American folk material.

Beginning concert band directors looking for material that builds foundational skills without requiring advanced technique. First-year students benefit from contrasting two different approaches to phrasing and articulation within a single rehearsal.

• Shape the legato line in "Once I Had a Sweetheart" by encouraging players to listen for the melody and support it with soft, sustained harmonic voices. Balance matters more than volume here.
• Establish a steady, driving pulse in "Cindy" and lock the rhythm section early. The contrast between songs works only if each has its own clear character from the start.
• Mark the articulation changes in the score where Story shifts from sustained to tongued passages. Have section leaders identify these moments so everyone makes the shift together.

Program this as a second-half opener in a early-season concert, where its brevity and accessibility create a welcoming transition before longer works. It also works well as a repertoire staple for demonstrating progress; bands return to it periodically to hear how their musicianship has deepened.

• Distinguishing and executing legato versus marcato articulation
• Balancing melodic interest with harmonic support
• Listening for and responding to style changes within a piece
• Sustaining tone quality in lyrical passages at soft dynamics
• Reading and performing folk melodies in concert band context