Brian Balmages

Explore Middle Eastern sounds with this work that combines authentic traditional melodies and rhythms with original music. After a haunting opening, authentic Middle Eastern percussion instruments cre...

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...

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...

Concert band meets bluegrass in this innovative work that infuses a multitude of stylistic influences within a contemporary framework. Making use of traditional instruments such as washboard and spoon...

Inspired by a trip to Honolulu, this music embodies the "aloha spirit" that so many discover when visiting the islands of Hawaii. Making use of a wealth of authentic percussion instruments (along with...

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...

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...

Explore Middle Eastern sounds with this work that combines traditional folk songs with original music. After a haunting opening, authentic Middle Eastern percussion instruments create the groove that...

Celtica was conceived as a piece for young orchestras that wish to feature an advanced violinist within the orchestra or invite a guest soloist. The work finds its inspiration in the beautiful, lyrica...

Celtica was conceived as a piece for young orchestras that wish to feature an advanced violinist within the orchestra or invite a guest soloist. The work finds its inspiration in the beautiful, lyrica...

Celtica was conceived as a piece for young orchestras that wish to feature an advanced violinist within the orchestra or invite a guest soloist. The work finds its inspiration in the beautiful, lyrica...

Based on Thomas Moore's The Minstrel Boy, this work uses the full gamut of styles and techniques, from bagpipe drones to lyrical playing and even fiddle music. The work is composed of three variations...

Based on Thomas Moore's The Minstrel Boy, this work uses the full gamut of styles and techniques, from bagpipe drones to lyrical playing and even fiddle music. The work is composed of three variations...

With past commissions by groups such as the Baltimore and Miami Symphony Orchestras, Brian Balmages now turns to a lighter side with this fun-spirited fiddle tune. Your students and audience will feel...

Intense and driving rhythms conjure images of ancient tribal rituals in this thrilling new work for beginning string orchestra. The bold opening statements immediately grab your audience before a more...

Extensive harmonies and soaring melodic lines contribute to this sensitive setting of the ever-popular song Scarborough Fair. The opening lines hint at the melancholy nature of the music, which eventu...

The haunting melody of Sakura, Sakura moves through a series of stunning and beautiful transformations before finally coming to rest in this musical fantasy. Tonal centers switch between minor and maj...

Here is a barnburner that will bring down the house and then some! Combining the joy of fiddle music with the thrill of perpetual motion, this high-speed rush captures the authentic feel of Appalachia...

Based on the emotional Irish song, this thoughtful setting paints a picture of a man dreaming of the day he can return home. At times, the piece feels more like a fantasy than an arrangement as the me...

Based on the emotional Irish song, this thoughtful setting paints a picture of a man dreaming of the day he can return home. At times, the piece feels more like a fantasy than an arrangement as the me...

Featuring string quartet and orchestra, this tour de force follows a few straggling Irish musicians (the quartet) who find themselves in a junkyard picking up scrap instruments. As the quartet begins...

Featuring string quartet and orchestra, this tour de force follows a few straggling Irish musicians (the quartet) who find themselves in a junkyard picking up scrap instruments. As the quartet begins...

Featuring string quartet and orchestra, this tour de force follows a few straggling Irish musicians (the quartet) who find themselves in a junkyard picking up scrap instruments. As the quartet begins...