"The Castle Gates" for Concert Band

Drawing on visions of medieval castles using the Dorian Mode and several metallic percussion instruments, this piece strives to capture the awe of approaching the waiting Castle Gates using the first six pitches of the Concert Bb Scale, basic rhythms, and tutti playing.

A powerful intro and strong melody outline the formidable castle, a quieter contrasting section represents the humbling experience of standing before the gates, and an uplifting third melody brings us in an invites us to wonder and be amazed before transitions back to the powerful first melody. With a melody written mostly to showcase the middle voiced instruments, this piece is designed to fuel the imagination

I hope you and your students enjoy this piece!