Intended for intermediate to professional concert bands, this unique setting of this patriotic standard is perfect for honoring the United States of America and members of the Armed Forces. Not a typical setting, many liberties are taken to showcase each instrument of the ensemble with the melodic focus constantly shifting. As this short fanfare-like composition progresses, the mood shifts from unsettled to triumphant. Feature this as a thought-provoking moment in your concerts. Duration: 1:45
Program Notes:
America is intended for any intermediate to professional concert band looking to honor the United States of America and/or members of the Armed Forces. It is therefore ideal for performance on or around any patriotic holiday. It is not a typical setting of the tune, in that many liberties are taken to showcase each instrument of the ensemble, with the melodic focus constantly shifting. The conductor and performers should seek out these moments, and bring them to life whenever possible.
Performance Notes:
The introduction, mm. 1–12, should be approached in the style of a fanfare, with an emphasis on syncopation and exaggerated nuance in regards to articulation style. Here, hidden beneath woodwind flourishes and triumphant bugle calls, the low voices play quotes of familiar American tunes such as The Star-Spangled Banner (m. 1, beat 3) and Simple Gifts (m. 3, beat 4).
In mm. 15–22 the melody is carefully hidden among counter lines. This should be carefully balanced to highlight the melody, while still shaping the counter melodies appropriately. A brief return to the fanfare style occurs in mm. 33–35 before melding back into the chorale style.
In regards to dynamics, performers should be reminded that within any single dynamic exists a range of expressive shades. No two notes should be played at the same volume, ensuring direction in even the simplest of phrases. Generally speaking, the fortissimo dynamic should be approached thoughtfully, with the bulk of the sound coming from the lowest voices, and the least from the highest voices.
