Wings and Shield: (wp) 3rd Horn in E-flat

Brubaker has written a march that honors its subject without resorting to bombast or hollow patriotism. The Grade 3 difficulty makes it genuinely playable by developing bands, yet the innovative flourish and soaring melodic writing give advanced ensembles something musically rewarding to shape and perform.

Wings and Shield opens with an innovative flourish that catches the ear, then unfolds into broad, confident melodies that evoke the bravery of Coast Guard personnel on search and rescue missions. The piece conveys dignity and purpose, building from that distinctive opening gesture into passages that feel both triumphant and respectful.

Concert bands at the Grade 3 level who want a substantial patriotic march with genuine musical substance. Directors seeking repertoire for summer and 4th of July programming will find a piece that serves ceremonial contexts without sacrificing artistry.

• Balance the innovative opening flourish carefully so it sets up rather than overshadows the main melodic material; this gesture serves the larger arc of the piece.
• Shape the soaring melodies with a long-line approach, letting each section breathe while maintaining forward momentum through the 2:45 duration.
• Pay attention to dynamic contrast between thematic sections to highlight the structural design and keep audience engagement through the final statements.

Program this as the centerpiece of a patriotic concert or as the opener for a July 4th performance. Its length and grade level make it suitable for mid-year performance once fundamentals are solid, and it pairs well with other marches or lighter concert fare on the same program.

• Phrasing long melodic lines with shape and direction
• Dynamic control across contrasting sections
• Ensemble balance between featured lines and supporting harmonies
• Sustained musicality in march form