Brian Balmages

This familiar aria from Puccini's opera Gianni Schicchi is scored to feature solo tuba or euphonium. Gorgeous, lyric lines meld with a simple, warm background... an unforgettable arrangement. The wind...

Close your program with this non-stop, energetic barnburner that combines elements of dance, jazz, and Latin grooves! As its title suggests, Rail Riffs feels like one massive party on rails that is ce...

Journey into a place where shapes constantly shift as the light moves, and nothing is quite as it seems. While very approachable for intermediate orchestras, Into the Shadows pushes harmonic boundarie...

Wake up to a brilliant stream of sunshine as portrayed by a wave of sound that instantly hits your audience. Scored to help your group project a massive sound regardless of its size, this accessible w...

Flying is a favorite activity of lucid dreamers, who are able to become aware that they are dreaming and then control their actions while inside the dream. Among the Clouds takes us into the minds of...

Make a powerful statement with this intense yet introspective work. The opening exclamation by percussion becomes a fixture throughout, supported by epic brass lines and energetic woodwind flourishes....

The dual meaning of this title embodies the aggressive, powerful nature of the music while also recognizing the critical impact that arts programs have on students and local communities. The ultimate...

Written to celebrate an amazing orchestra teacher's retirement, this piece strives to capture the joyful things, the emotional, loving, and supportive things - literally All the Things. Opening with a...

Fanfare for the Fearless is a dynamic fanfare by Brian Balmages celebrating those willing to take risks in an effort to grow musically, personally, or academically. Powerful melodic statements contras...

While many often underestimate the extensive colors, harmonies, and emotional ranges available to younger ensembles, this stunning lyrical work sets out to explore those very qualities. While playable...

This hauntingly aggressive work investigates the legends surrounding the exploration of Antarctica. Inspired by the recent brutal winters involving the polar vortex, the music depicts magical scenery...

Woodlands Overture is a musical celebration that showcases every section of the concert band! After a tutti introduction, Brian Balmages features the brass section in a rhythmic, harmonically vibrant...

Woodlands Overture is a musical celebration that showcases every section of the concert band! After a tutti introduction, Brian Balmages features the brass section in a rhythmic, harmonically vibrant...

It is time to revolutionize fundamental skill practice while also motivating students to practice twice as much on average! This collection of technique exercises is designed to support the pedagogy p...

A Celtic Celebration is an original work by Brian Balmages, who pays homage to the rich Celtic musical tradition. The opening is hauntingly beautiful, with natural moments of rubato built into the phr...

Lots of smiles will appear while performing this small set of variations on the Stephen Foster classic. From fanfares to short chorales, enjoy this delightful and humorous rendition, complete with sto...

This three-movement work is based on various Scottish dance forms and includes a combination of authentic and original music. The opening Reel begins with a light-hearted presentation of the melody in...

Inspired by Japanese folklore, this incredibly colorful work is based on two authentic folksongs that are both related to the mythical kitsune, or "fox spirits." The use of alto and soprano recorders...

This four-movement suite is based on a collection of Welsh songs inspired by war and revolution. The first movement, A Mighty Warrior, uses a folk song surrounded by original material, much in the sty...

Based on oral history of the Anishinaabeg, this piece draws its name from Ojibwe historian Basil Johnston, who offered the literal translation of the name as "Spontaneous Beings." Based on authentic f...

This spirited work depicts a parade in Scotland from a spectator’s viewpoint. Based on the popular folk song Aiken Drum, the piece layers various elements to create the iconic sound of Scottish pipes...

Experience the rush of Go Time! This high-energy piece by Brian Balmages blends elements of rock, funk, and jazz. A relentless pulse combines with dynamic meter changes, a cooking percussion section,...

Experience the rush of Go Time! This high-energy piece by Brian Balmages blends elements of rock, funk, and jazz. A relentless pulse combines with dynamic meter changes, a cooking percussion section,...

This thrilling fanfare by Brian Balmages will set the stage for your entire concert. The audience is taken back to the time of the Roman Empire, with the sounds of the parades that preceded the chario...

The dragonflies will be buzzing around your concert stage when you select this wonderful piece for your concert program. Ideal to strengthen brass players and teach some elementary ear training, the b...