Band BFFs

In this episode of Band BFFs, the hosts dive into Union March by Mekel Rogers , a bite-size (about 1:15) concert E♭ march in 2/4 that’s perfect for teaching classic march roles—melody, countermelody, and motor—without split parts or heavy percussion. They share quick rehearsal wins like keeping notes resonant (not too short), using “tau” for clean accents, and watching tuning/articulation in the b...

This week's episode is a first for the "Band BFFs"! We were honored to record a crossover podcast episode with Kyle Smith of "The Growing Band Director"! We had great conversation about how and why we choose pieces and even literature for our own bands. We spoke about some of our favorite pieces and Kyle gave great insight to us as well! Check out this informative and fun Crossover episode with "T...

In this episode of Band BFFs , the hosts dive into Destiny Fanfare by Mekel Rogers, exploring its energetic march-like character, approachable range, and percussion-driven fanfare style. They share practical insights for balancing parts, shaping phrasing, and programming it as a concert fanfare or a march, or even for an All Region band!

In this Band BFFs episode, the hosts break down Randall Standridge’s Choose Joy , which is a brisk, high-energy showpiece with lots of percussion, a calm middle section, and an “Ode to Joy” moment—ideal year-round (especially winter concerts). They highlight practical rehearsal tips (clean articulation, balance), range demands for first trumpet, and all the cool percussion moments!

In this Band BFFs episode, the hosts break down JaRod Hall’s You Better Sleigh! —a funk-style, cut-time crowd-pleaser in concert B♭, which is packed with call-and-response lines, sax and low-brass features, and fun claps that make it a standout for winter concerts and elementary demo visits! They stress clean, independent counting for the syncopation, ample percussion coverage, and smart layering...

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 fu...

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 bal...

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 cha...

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 mu...

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 a...

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.

In this episode of Band BFFs , we explore Storming the Castle by new composer Connor Dunford — a high-energy, programmatic grade 1.5 piece inspired by medieval battles. With accessible ranges, strong dynamic shaping, and great teaching opportunities in style and articulation, this exciting work is a standout for young bands.

In this episode of Band BFFs , we dive into Contempo by Michael Story — an energetic grade 2 piece full of style shifts, tuning considerations, and teaching potential. From exposed trumpet lines to lyrical woodwind moments and snare drum nuance, we break down why this “oldie but goodie” deserves thoughtful preparation and confident players.

On this episode of Band BFFs , we explore Groovee by Richard Saucedo—an energetic, percussion-driven Grade 2 piece recently added to the Texas PML. We break down articulation traps, rehearsal strategies, and standout teaching moments that make it a perfect fit for everything from fall concerts to UIL. With catchy melodies and a rock-out finish, this piece is sure to be a student favorite.

On this episode of Band BFFs , we dive into Serengeti Dreams by Robert W. Smith, a beloved staple for young and developing bands celebrating its 25th anniversary. We break down everything from percussion setup and melodic features to tricky transitions and tuning challenges, all while sharing practical teaching tips and performance insights. If you've got strong flutes, solid horns, and a great pe...

In this episode of Band BFFs , the hosts dive into The Oncoming Storm by Mekel Rogers, a high-energy grade 1 piece on the Texas PML. They break down the pedagogical benefits of teaching 3/4 time, ensemble balance, and articulation, all while highlighting the piece’s storm-inspired character and powerful percussion writing. With its steady tempo, accessible key, and dynamic musical storytelling, it...

We open Season 3 with a great Texas PML grade 2! In this episode of Band BFFs , the hosts explore Byzantine Dances by Carol Brittin Chambers—a vibrant, high-energy piece full of stylistic variety, engaging percussion, and even some snaps and claps! They break down its structure, discuss rehearsal strategies for articulation, breathing, and highlight its versatility for concerts, UIL, or region ban...

In this episode of Band BFFs , the hosts spotlight Sunchaser by Carol Brittin Chambers, a vibrant and fast-paced piece that radiates optimism and sunshine. With driving rhythms,key changes, style changes, and exciting parts for every section, it’s a perfect opener or closer to energize your concert program.

In this episode of Band BFFs , the hosts explore Darklands March by Randall Standridge, a brisk, dramatic piece that blends traditional march structure with a darker tone. They highlight its strong teaching potential, varied instrumentation, and engaging parts for all sections—especially percussion and low voices. With its versatility for both concert and contest settings, this march offers both m...

In this episode of Band BFFs , the hosts dive into Hypnotic Fireflies by Brian Balmages, describing it as cinematic and rhythmically mesmerizing. They break down the piece’s layered textures, percussion demands—including a creative amplified slinky effect—and highlight the importance of piano and mallet instruments throughout. Special guest Nathan Lewis shares how to build a DIY slinky amplifier,...

Looking for a beautiful Grade 1 piece that introduces your students to expressive playing, color chords, and dynamic nuance? In this episode of Band BFFs , we explore Atlantis by Anne McGinty—a Texas PML staple full of rich harmonies, independent lines, and sneaky challenges that demand mature tone and balance. Learn how to elevate your ensemble’s sound with this rite-of-passage piece.