WINGERT-JONES PUBLICATIONS

This exuberant concert work provides a thrilling way to open or close any performance in a grand manner. Cleverly written, this original piece includes melodic fragments of The Star-Spangled Banner that emerge throughout, constantly hinting at the famous anthem before being absorbed into the swirling melodic lines that resonate throughout the piece. A marvelous setting that will enhance and energize any concert performance or patriotic ceremony.

One hundred and fifty years ago, one of the greatest events in our nation's history was taking place, shaping the future of our country.  Using popular songs from that era, the composer gives us a musical portrait of that time; tuneful and playable, this medley functions as both a commemorative selection as well as a stirring concert work.

Elegy for the U.S.S. Arizona is a tribute to the lasting legacy of the members of Navy Band No. 22, the band on the U.S.S. Arizona, entombed with over 1,100 other sailors in the sunken wreckage of the Arizona at Pearl Harbor. A solemn snare drum begins and ends the piece, and the familiar strains of Eternal Father Strong to Save are used to create a moving tribute to all veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

George Washington and the Continental Army's withdrawal from Philadelphia to Valley Forge was one of the darkest chapters of the Revolutionary War. The demoralized mood of the troops is conveyed by the Revolutionary-era hymn Chester in a minor setting. A tempo change ushers in a new spirit as the Continental Army perseveres through the harsh winter and becomes a hardened fighting force. Finally, Chester is triumphantly presented in a major key as the now-formidable army emerges, ready to take up the fight and secure America's independence.

This musical tribute honors one of our nation's greatest presidents and his most famous speech. The words of the Gettysburg Address echo through history and are presented here using melodies of that era. A profound musical presentation playable by younger bands that can be performed with or without the narration.

This classic march was written on a train in 1902 and has been an extremely popular concert favorite ever since. John Philip Sousa once referred to it as one of the three most effective street marches ever written, and Frederick Fennell called the piece "as perfect as a march can be." It still remains one of the best-known marches today, and this exceptional setting for young bands will allow developing groups to perform it effectively with great success.