Wind Storm: Concert Band Conductor Score

$7.00 USD

Wind Storm: Concert Band Conductor Score

Name: Wind Storm: Concert Band Conductor Score
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-37783S
Price: 7.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By John O'Reilly

Grade: 1.5 (Easy)

Item: 00-37783S

$7.00

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One moment…

In early December 2011, a powerful wind storm passed through Southern California, leaving thousands without electricity and severe damage to many mature trees. Written during this event, this piece uses sharply syncopated rhythms, the key of C minor and prominent percussion to convey the mood that prevailed during the storm. As is always the case, calm, clear weather returned and the lyrical slow section in E-flat major brings that to mind. Accent on Achievement users will recognize the chorale in bars 49--56 as a variation of the B-flat chorale that appears on page 44 of Book 1.

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Series: Accent on Achievement

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 8

UPC: 038081438313

SKU: 00-37783S

More about this title

About the Composer: John O'Reilly

John O'Reilly has shaped concert band repertoire for decades, with a particular gift for writing accessible music that doesn't sacrifice musical substance. His work with the Accent on Achievement series demonstrates his deep understanding of how young musicians develop, consistently meeting them at their level while offering genuine musical rewards.

O'Reilly's compositions often draw from real experience and observation, translating tangible events into musical narratives that resonate with performers and audiences alike. His ability to craft engaging, teachable pieces has made him a trusted voice in music education publishing.

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Why we love this

This piece transforms a specific historical event into music that sounds urgent and cohesive without overwhelming a Grade 1.5 ensemble. The deliberate key contrast between the turbulent C minor opening and the serene E-flat major calm section gives conductors a natural arc to shape, while the familiar Accent on Achievement chorale provides an anchor for students who know the method book series.

What to expect

The piece opens with sharp, driving syncopation that propels forward with restless energy, mirroring the chaos and urgency of a natural disaster. When the E-flat major section arrives, the music softens into a lyrical, peaceful reflection, offering genuine emotional contrast and a moment of respite.

Who it's for

This score is designed for Grade 1.5 concert bands and conductors seeking meaningful programmatic literature that doesn't demand advanced technical facility. It works especially well for ensembles using the Accent on Achievement series, since students will recognize and connect with the familiar chorale.

How to get the most out of it

Shape the syncopated rhythms in the opening section with clear, deliberate conducting to help the band lock the offbeat figures together; precision here establishes the storm's energy.
Contrast the tempo and intensity markedly when you reach the E-flat major slow section to let students experience the emotional shift from chaos to calm; this dramatic pivot is the piece's emotional core.
Balance the prominent percussion parts so they drive the rhythm without overwhelming the melodic voices, especially in the opening storm section where the band needs to hear itself.

How to use it

Use this as a concert opener or closer to anchor a thematic program about nature, weather, or resilience; the programmatic clarity makes it easy for audiences to understand without lengthy explanation. It also serves well in a contest or festival setting where the combination of energy and lyricism showcases the band's expressive range within a manageable timeframe.

Skills your students will build

Syncopated rhythm reading and execution in a driving tempo
Dynamic contrast and phrasing across a major key change
Balancing independent rhythmic lines with ensemble cohesion
Responding to programmatic intent through musical character and tempo adjustment