America, the Beautiful [Alf:00-7664]

This beautiful American patriotic melody is sensitively arranged for younger players and will be a useful and versatile addition to any band library. A heralding introduction leads to a stately theme, which is played by the low brass and clarinets and expressively highlighted with trumpet and flute countermelodies. When the melody repeats, an optional chorus (or trumpet soli) joins in and continues through the triumphant climax. (Grade 2) Use the easy-to-play piano accompaniment or add the band arrangement.