Band BFFs

In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore Excitation March by Rob Grice — a perfect introduction to march style for beginning and sub–non-varsity bands. This short, 90-second piece uses only the first six notes of the B♭ scale and stays in 2/4 throughout, making it a great teaching tool for articulation, dynamics, march form, and phrasing. With limited percussion, unison rhythms, and clear part functions (melody, harmony, bass line), it offers a successful and accessible first march experience for young players.

In this episode of Band BFFs, we highlight Christmas Around the Band Room by Lisa Galvin — a festive, beginner-friendly medley that includes Up on the Housetop, Jolly Old St. Nicholas, and Jingle Bells. With accessible ranges, full ensemble scoring, and balanced moments for every section, this joyful arrangement gives all players a chance to shine while reinforcing key ensemble skills like balance, phrasing, and articulation. A crowd-pleasing, flexible winter concert option that’s as fun to teach as it is to perform!

In this episode of Band BFFs, we break down Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson, arranged by Michael Story — a festive, recognizable favorite adapted for beginner and sub–non-varsity bands. With optional simplifications, flexible percussion scoring, and a strong teaching focus on phrasing, articulation, and form (including multiple first and second endings), this charming winter piece provides both challenge and joy. Your students will love the classic sleigh bells, slapstick, and optional trumpet horse whinny — all while learning ensemble skills they'll use for years.

In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore 6-Note Santa arranged by Joseph Compello, a short, cheerful grade 0.5 holiday piece perfect for first-year beginners. With unison writing, limited range, and familiar melodies like “Jolly Old St. Nicholas,” this tune is easy to teach and fun to play. We highlight how it introduces phrasing, balance, and ensemble skills while letting every section shine.

In this episode of Band BFFs, we break down Two British Folk Songs by Elliot Del Borgo — a staple grade 2 piece known for its beautiful contrast between lyrical and energetic styles. We share what makes this piece rewarding and challenging: exposed woodwind features, complex ensemble balance, and detailed phrasing across both movements. It’s a rich learning experience for bands with developing musicianship and a love for expressive storytelling through music.

In this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Danza Zanzare by JaRod Hall — a witty and engaging grade 2 piece that captures the energy of a mosquito swarm through vibrant percussion, playful woodwind lines, and clever effects like mouthpiece buzzing and clapping. With rich opportunities for articulation, style, and creative interpretation, this short, programmatic work is a guaranteed student and audience favorite.

In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore Mighty Mite March by Ted Mesang, arranged by Sean O’Loughlin — a bold, traditional-style march full of challenge and character. With high brass ranges, technical woodwind lines, and complex scoring, this piece is perfect for bands ready to feature a strong trumpet section, confident low brass, and crisp march style.

In this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Hsien by Earl J. Fox Jr. — a lyrical and energetic grade 2 piece featuring a slow-fast-slow form. With beautiful solo moments, demanding high-range passages, and intricate articulation, this piece offers rich musical challenges and ensemble development for mature middle school bands.

In this episode of Band BFFs, Katie and Laura explore Dark Star by Christina Huss—a Texas PML Grade 1 piece perfect for fall concerts, featuring bold low brass lines, rich percussion textures, and accessible writing that lets younger woodwinds shine without being overexposed. They highlight its versatility, teachable phrasing moments, and why it’s a great pick for developing ensembles.

In this episode of Band BFFs, Katie and Laura dive into Basilisk by Tyler Arcari, a 2025 Grade 1.5 piece full of engaging effects, rich textures, and performance opportunities perfect for middle school or region bands. They break down its instrumentation, percussion needs, unique water bottle effects, and why it’s both fun and pedagogically useful.