Wind Band Compositions

This collection represents original works for wind band and concert band, ranging from intermediate to advanced difficulty levels. Each composition is designed to challenge performers musically and technically while providing audiences with engaging and memorable listening experiences.

Midare-gami (Tangled Hair)

One of the signature works in the wind band catalog, Midare-gami takes its title from the celebrated poetry collection by Yosano Akiko, one of Japan's most influential modern poets. The piece explores themes of passion, independence, and the conflict between tradition and modernity that defined early 20th century Japan.

Musically, Midare-gami features sweeping melodic lines in the woodwind section that intertwine like strands of hair, while the brass provides powerful harmonic support representing the strength of conviction. The work moves through several emotional landscapes—from delicate and introspective passages to bold, assertive statements—reflecting the poetry's exploration of female identity and desire.

Instrumentation: Full concert band (Grade 4)
Duration: Approximately 8 minutes
Technical Highlights: Requires mature woodwind section, expressive brass playing, and sensitive percussion

Takoyaki Mambo

A playful and energetic work that celebrates Japanese street food culture, Takoyaki Mambo brings together Latin rhythmic patterns with Japanese melodic sensibilities. The piece captures the lively atmosphere of outdoor food festivals and the joy of shared culinary experiences.

The mambo rhythm drives the composition forward with infectious energy, while melodic material draws from traditional Japanese scales and ornamentations. The result is a cross-cultural musical celebration that never takes itself too seriously, offering both performers and audiences a delightful and entertaining experience.

Instrumentation: Full concert band (Grade 3)
Duration: Approximately 5 minutes
Technical Highlights: Rhythmic precision, Latin percussion emphasis, accessible for developing ensembles

Open Arms

Open Arms was composed as a reflection on themes of welcome, hospitality, and human connection. The work begins with a warm, inviting gesture in the horn section that gradually expands to encompass the entire ensemble, symbolizing the opening of hearts and the extension of friendship.

The harmonic language is lush and contemporary, featuring rich chord voicings and subtle dissonances that resolve into moments of consonant beauty. A lyrical central section showcases the ensemble's singing tone across all sections, while the outer movements feature more rhythmic vitality and forward momentum.

Instrumentation: Full concert band (Grade 4)
Duration: Approximately 7 minutes
Technical Highlights: Expressive playing, balance across sections, sustained melodic lines

Programming Considerations

These works are suitable for concert programming, festival performances, and competitive events. According to The College Band Directors National Association, contemporary compositions that blend cultural influences provide valuable educational opportunities for student musicians and contribute to the expanding canon of wind band literature.

Band directors seeking to program works that offer both musical substance and cultural diversity will find these compositions well-suited to their needs. The pieces work equally well as featured selections or as part of a varied concert program.

Preparing for Wind Band Performances

Successful wind band performances result from thoughtful preparation at every level. Directors benefit from early score study, identifying passages that will require focused attention and developing rehearsal strategies before the first ensemble read-through. Consider marking your score with sectional rehearsal notes, balance concerns, and interpretive decisions before beginning work with the ensemble.

For students, wind band participation develops skills beyond instrumental technique. Following a conductor, adjusting to section blend, and maintaining focus through extended rehearsals builds discipline applicable across musical and non-musical contexts. The ensemble experience teaches listening skills—awareness of how individual parts contribute to the whole—that enhance musical sensitivity in all performance situations.

Performance preparation should include attention to ensemble setup and stage presentation. Wind band seating arrangements affect balance and communication between sections. Consider sight lines to the conductor, distances between sections that need to coordinate rhythmically, and acoustic properties of the performance space when arranging the ensemble.

Score and Parts Availability

Full scores and complete sets of parts are available for all wind band compositions. Perusal scores can be requested for review before purchase. Digital score samples are provided on individual composition pages for programming consideration.

For more information about obtaining scores, rental options, or commissioning new wind band works, please visit the contact page.