With over 1,000 new band works published yearly, it becomes increasingly difficult for directors to find appropriate and worthwhile music. Composer/arranger Michael Sweeney discusses key elements to look for (and avoid) when selecting music for young players. Factors such as instrumentation, rhythmic complexity, ranges, keys, duration, and pacing are examined. Also discussed are some not-so-obvious elements hidden in the scoring, plus intangibles such as musical content and lasting value.
Michael Sweeney
- Biographical Information
Michael Sweeney is currently Director of Band Publications for Hal Leonard Corporation in Milwaukee, WI. In addition, he contributes as a composer and arranger in all instrumental areas with over 500 publications to his name. Sweeney is a 1977 graduate of Indiana University, and taught middle and high school band in Ohio and Indiana prior to joining Hal Leonard in 1982.
A winner of multiple ASCAP awards, many of Sweeney's compositions have become staples in the repertoire for young bands. His works appear on numerous state contest lists and are included in the Teaching Music Through Performance series by GIA Publications. His commissions range from middle and high school bands to the Eastman Wind Ensemble and Canadian Brass. Sweeney is also in demand as a clinician and conductor for honor bands and festivals.