Each composer addresses the following topics: Biographical information, The creative process ... how a composer works, Orchestration, Views from the composer to the conductor, Commissioning new works, The teaching of composition, Influential individuals, Ten works all band conductors at all levels should study, Ten composers whose music speaks in especially meaningful ways, The future of the wind band, Other facets of everyday life, Comprehensive list of works for band.

This book is intended to introduce concepts about music composition to band and orchestra students of all ages and engage them in actual creative composing projects. The National Core Arts Standards (2014) emphasize that students should be engaged in the “creative practices of imagination, investigation, construction, and reflection in multiple contexts.” These lesson plans attempt to accomplish that challenge in the context of large group band and orchestra ensemble classes using composition activities and projects.

Accent on Ensembles is an exciting book of duets, trios and quartets for flexible instrumentation that correlates with Accent on Achievement, Book 1. Use these ensembles to develop confidence in young players and as a valuable resource for music during contest season. Since the instrumentation is flexible, any combination of instruments can play together. Accent on Ensembles, Book 2 is an exciting book of duets, trios and quartets for flexible instrumentation that correlates with Accent on Achievement, Book 2.

(Berklee Guide). Learn the essential practices of contemporary conducting. This book will teach you to use the motions, cues, patterns and practices used to lead ensembles, whether for orchestra, band, musical theater, opera, film orchestra, or other type of ensemble. You will learn techniques for keeping time, signaling musicians, and crafting your unique interpretation of the score, as well as how to command the stage presence necessary to lead a large ensemble whether for concert performances or synching live performers to other media, such as film, recordings, musical theater and dance. Video demonstrations and annotated scores of orchestral excerpts from Beethoven, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and others illustrate and let you practice various conducting challenges, such as cadenzas, rubato and quickly changing time signatures. Also included are interviews with some of the most accomplished conductors of your time, such as John Wiliams, Lalo Schifrin, JoAnn Falletta, John Morris Russell and others, providing perspective from the concert hall podium to the Broadway pit to the Hollywood sound stage.