The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 2.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2022

About the Music

As a native of the Seattle area, the pacific northwest holds fond memories of the infrequent but cherished moments of sunshine and the year round greenery. "Evergreen Escapades" explores the terrain and weather conditions of the pacific northwest, beginning with a cold, fog-covered morning, concealing the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. As the sun continues to rise, the fog fades and a gloomy rainstorm takes its place while we traverse through the evergreens. As the music persists onwards, rays of sunshine peek through the clouds and bring about a warm, joyous afternoon filled with light, breathtaking mountain views, and the scent of pine needles.

Evergreen Escapades

Alfred Music
Concert Band
Grade 4
Robert Sheldon, Conductor
2022

About the Music

"Spirt of the Dauntless" is an anthem of power and courage. The ideas develop as our hero moves through different challenges and landscapes---some foreboding, and some treacherous. Some moments depict challenges and struggles while others are filled with triumph. Powerful musical statements bring the work to a rousing finish, concluding our hero's fearless journey.

Spirit of the Dauntless

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 1
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2022

About the Music

On a quiet night, I stepped outside for a brief moment and looked up into the sky above. Everything was still, quiet, and peaceful. I wished that I could stay in that moment and experience that tranquility forever. I was instantly brought to the present moment and was reminded of how wonderful it is to just “be;” to not worry about what happened at work or school and to not feel anxious about what the next day may hold. "Moonlight Bliss" is a reminder to enjoy the present moment, for that moment will never be present again.

Moonlight Bliss

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 4
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2022

About the Music

The modern world can be fast-paced, invigorating, and erratic; it is filled with opportunity, exuberance, and tragedy all at once. We are constantly bombarded with notifications and life obstacles, and for many, this constant multitasking and juggling of responsibilities can be overwhelming. In such a world, it is important to take moments to experience peace, reflect on the past, and envision possibilities for the future. "Haven" explores the concept of living in a turbulent world while maintaining inner peace and stability. The opening measures bring a sense of timeless tranquility — a space free from all unpeaceful things. As the work continues, we encounter the outside world again and learn how to maintain peace of mind in the volatile environment that surrounds us. A re-introduction of themes from the opening serve as a reminder of our strength and ability to work through challenges. The work ends in a celebration of our newly discovered inner peace that has helped to inspire a better world around us.

Haven

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 2.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2020

About the Music

Like its title implies, this highly aggressive work is based on a combination of invigorating melodies and a relentless rhythmic drive. Musical lines weave throughout the ensemble, soaring countermelodies take center stage, and an increasingly intense final passage takes the piece to an entirely new level. Simply put, this one is full of energy!

Energy!

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 1.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2020

About the Music

Champions Rising

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 1.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2021

About the Music

It is easy to be in awe at the level of detail and magnitude of the spectacular skyscrapers that fill the skylines of large cities. This work takes the listener on a tour of a building site as the resulting superstructure begins to take form. Grooving rhythms and memorable melodies make this an excellent choice for young bands!

A Builders Dream

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
String Orchestra
Grade 4
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2022

About the Music

Inspired by the composer’s frequent visits to Montana, this musical tribute honors the grand landscapes of the state, including stunning mountain views and clear blue skies. Portraying everything from the breathtaking scenery to massive thunderstorms, this piece is an ideal way to explore the beauty and fury of Earth’s towering skies.

Visions of the Sky

American Composers Alliance
String Orchestra
Grade 4-5

Performed by the DC Youth Orchestra
Evan Ross Solomon, conductor
2021

About the Music

"Undiscovered Pathways" is a thrilling new composition inspired by exploring new pathways in the great outdoors. With each new pathway comes a sense of novelty, optimism, and mystery. This work explores the outermost edges of harmonic boundaries as well as the most glorious of orchestrations and chordal patterns. We live in a world of endless possibilities and Undiscovered Pathways encourages us all to step beyond the boundaries and embrace the unknown.

Undiscovered Pathways

Adrian B. Sims | Grade 1.5 | Duration: 2:00 Absolute sheer force. Unrelenting forward momentum. I hope you’re ready! This high-energy work for developing bands has a motivational message for all and directs students' attention to style, articulation, and dynamic contrast. A thrilling work that students are sure to enjoy!

Propulsion

Fanfare for Flight

Incandescence

The FJH Music Company, Inc.
Concert Band
Grade 4.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2018

Contraption (FJH, Grade 4.5)

Adrian B. Sims
Brass Quartet: 2 Trombones, Euphonium, Tuba
Grade 3

"Flourish for Four Winds" is a concise work that explores various tonal centers, rhythmic patterns, and styles. The piece contrasts lyrical melodic lines with rhythmically active accompaniments supported by rich chord structures.

Performers:
Adrian B. Sims and Pedro Martinez, trombone
Thomas Lin, euphonium
Pasquale Sarracco, tuba

Flourish for Four Winds

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 3.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2019

Forgotten Tales of the West (FJH, Grade 3.5)

The FJH Music Company, Inc. 
Concert Band
Grade 2.5
Brian Balmages, Conductor
2019

About the Music:
Selected as a winner in the 2018 Make Music Young Composers Contest, Force Field was inspired by ideas of strength and durability. The bold statements near the beginning and end of the work relate to the power with which a force field stands. These statements of strength envelope a lyrical section (bars 65 to 81) that exists within the protection of the field.

Force Field (FJH, Grade 2.5)

Adrian B. Sims (b. 2000) was born in Seattle, Washington and has been composing music since he was eleven years old. Adrian graduated from Catonsville High School (class of 2018) in Catonsville, Maryland. He has played trombone in a wide variety of musical ensembles including pit and symphony orchestras as well as jazz and concert bands. Adrian is grateful for the continued support from his band directors Christopher Gnagey and Cindy Stevenson, and is pursuing a degree in Music Education and Composition.

Adrianbsims

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