Gentle River - Grade 1

Gentle River is a lyrical ballad by Rob Grice that depicts the simple beauty of a river as it flows peacefully through a green valley. It offers the opportunity to teach younger musicians to play expressively while using legato and staccato articulations yet maintaining a blended and balanced ensemble sound. Wonderful teaching material for this Grade level.

Austin Symphonic Band - Texas – Richard Floyd, Conductor, Cheryl Floyd, Guest Conductor – VIDEO

Force of Nature - Grade 1.5

This powerful and exciting new work amply displays again why Rob Grice is one of the most quicKly rising stars in the band music world. It was inspired by the 2004 hurricane season that spawned some of the most destructive storms to hit the Florida coast in history. From the opening powerful statment through the fast and furious sections, Force of Nature takes the performer and listener on a musical journey through one of nature's most amazing storms, the hurricane.

North Ridge Middle School Honors Band - Texas – Cindy Lansford, Conductor

Dark Fortress Overture - Grade 2

This is dramatic writing for young bands! An underlying driving rhythm propels the music forward, and sweeping themes create a sense of grandeur. The modal tonality helps build a sense of darkness.

New Music Reading Session

Pinnacle - Grade 2 (2001)

For a contemporary, fresh-sounding selection, try this spirited work by Rob Grice. It has all the energetic writing and memorable themes that make it just right for younger bands. The mid-voice instruments have a chance to shine in this sparkling work.

Stone High School - Mississippi – Mohamed Shuman, Conductor

Pinnacle - Grade 2 (2010)

For a contemporary, fresh-sounding selection, try this spirited work by Rob Grice. It has all the energetic writing and memorable themes that make it just right for younger bands. The mid-voice instruments have a chance to shine in this sparkling work.

Krimmel Intermediate Symphonic Band - Texas – Sharon Kalisek and Joel Wren, Conductors

Thunderbird - Grade 2

Rob Grice has over-achieved in this soaring new work, destined to be a "must-play" composition around the world! A middle school band director himself, Rob's music brings out the absolute best in young musicians who respond to inspiring music. This piece uses an array of colorful percussion sounds and modal harmonies to create an exciting southwestern sound palate. The excitement builds to a dynamic close to an incredibly evocative and memorable work for young band.

Maryville Intermediate School 6th Grade Wind Ensemble - Tennessee – George Hayden & RoAnn Romines, Conductors - VIDEO

Warriors of Beijing - Grade 2 (Band)

This exciting piece was inspired by the ancient battles of the first emperor of China in 221 B.C. and his warriors. This Emperor's reign included unification, the building of the Great Wall and his endless search for immortality. The forceful nature of the piece creates a picture of the 8,000 Terracotta Warriors buried in front of his tomb to defend him in the afterlife.

Vandercook College of Music - Illinois – Dr. Charles T. Menghini, Conductor

Warriors of Beijing - Grade 2 (String Orchestra)

This piece is exciting, and uses dissonance and clashing rhythms to portray advancing warriors! Inspired by a trip to Beijing and the vast terracotta army of warriors protecting their long dead emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The tension builds musically as we follow the emperor in the unification of China, the building of the Great Wall and his endless search for immortality. Outstanding!

Vernon Hills Symphony Orchestra - Frank Lestina and Fran Fetta, Conductors

Dragon Slayer - Grade 1 (String Orchestra)

Students and audiences will enjoy this exciting adventure into the world of the dragon slayer in this highly popular piece, which uses only D–B in all instruments (including the low E in cello and bass). Percussion and mild dissonance adds to the dark, medieval sound. Sure to be a favorite at your next concert!

Allen High School Full Orchestra- Texas – David Devoto, Conductor – VIDEO

Avenger - Grade 2.5 (String Orchestra)

Here is an aggressive original composition that explores contemporary harmonies and vigorous rhythms while creating feelings of animation and excitement. Use this piece to build musicianship through work on harmony, dynamics, balance and intensity. Sustain the overall drive and energy to the last note!

Mountain View High School Chamber Orchestra - Arizona – Walter Temme, Conductor