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PODCAST

Band BFFs

Katie Lewis and Laura Bell

Hosts Katie Lewis and Laura Bell are the Band BFF"s! This podcast is The One Where We Discuss Band Music. Cheers to starting the conversation!

music music commentary

All Episodes

33:48

Two British Folk Songs

Band BFFs ·

2025/09/29

In this episode of Band BFFs, we break down Two British Folk Songs by Elliot Del Borgo — a staple grade 2 piece known for its beautiful contrast between lyrical and energetic styles. We share what makes this piece rewarding and challenging: exposed woodwind features, complex ensemble balance, and detailed phrasing across both movements. It’s a rich learning experience for bands with developing musicianship and a love for expressive storytelling through music.

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16:05

Danza Zanzare

Band BFFs ·

2025/09/22

In this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Danza Zanzare by JaRod Hall — a witty and engaging grade 2 piece that captures the energy of a mosquito swarm through vibrant percussion, playful woodwind lines, and clever effects like mouthpiece buzzing and clapping. With rich opportunities for articulation, style, and creative interpretation, this short, programmatic work is a guaranteed student and audience favorite.

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25:49

Mighty Mite March

Band BFFs ·

2025/09/15

In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore Mighty Mite March by Ted Mesang, arranged by Sean O’Loughlin — a bold, traditional-style march full of challenge and character. With high brass ranges, technical woodwind lines, and complex scoring, this piece is perfect for bands ready to feature a strong trumpet section, confident low brass, and crisp march style.

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23:30

Hsien

Band BFFs ·

2025/09/08

In this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Hsien by Earl J. Fox Jr. — a lyrical and energetic grade 2 piece featuring a slow-fast-slow form. With beautiful solo moments, demanding high-range passages, and intricate articulation, this piece offers rich musical challenges and ensemble development for mature middle school bands.

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13:14

Dark Star

Band BFFs ·

2025/09/01

In this episode of Band BFFs, Katie and Laura explore Dark Star by Christina Huss—a Texas PML Grade 1 piece perfect for fall concerts, featuring bold low brass lines, rich percussion textures, and accessible writing that lets younger woodwinds shine without being overexposed. They highlight its versatility, teachable phrasing moments, and why it’s a great pick for developing ensembles.

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19:01

Basilisk

Band BFFs ·

2025/08/25

In this episode of Band BFFs, Katie and Laura dive into Basilisk by Tyler Arcari, a 2025 Grade 1.5 piece full of engaging effects, rich textures, and performance opportunities perfect for middle school or region bands. They break down its instrumentation, percussion needs, unique water bottle effects, and why it’s both fun and pedagogically useful.

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14:08

Storming the Castle

Band BFFs ·

2025/08/18

In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore Storming the Castle by new composer Connor Dunford — a high-energy, programmatic grade 1.5 piece inspired by medieval battles. With accessible ranges, strong dynamic shaping, and great teaching opportunities in style and articulation, this exciting work is a standout for young bands.

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28:25

Contempo

Band BFFs ·

2025/08/11

In this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Contempo by Michael Story — an energetic grade 2 piece full of style shifts, tuning considerations, and teaching potential. From exposed trumpet lines to lyrical woodwind moments and snare drum nuance, we break down why this “oldie but goodie” deserves thoughtful preparation and confident players.

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22:48

Groovee

Band BFFs ·

2025/08/04

On this episode of Band BFFs, we explore Groovee by Richard Saucedo—an energetic, percussion-driven Grade 2 piece recently added to the Texas PML. We break down articulation traps, rehearsal strategies, and standout teaching moments that make it a perfect fit for everything from fall concerts to UIL. With catchy melodies and a rock-out finish, this piece is sure to be a student favorite.

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25:18

Serengeti Dreams

Band BFFs ·

2025/08/02

On this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Serengeti Dreams by Robert W. Smith, a beloved staple for young and developing bands celebrating its 25th anniversary. We break down everything from percussion setup and melodic features to tricky transitions and tuning challenges, all while sharing practical teaching tips and performance insights. If you've got strong flutes, solid horns, and a great percussion section, this one's for you!

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18:06

The Oncoming Storm

Band BFFs ·

2025/07/21

In this episode of Band BFFs, the hosts dive into The Oncoming Storm by Mekel Rogers, a high-energy grade 1 piece on the Texas PML. They break down the pedagogical benefits of teaching 3/4 time, ensemble balance, and articulation, all while highlighting the piece’s storm-inspired character and powerful percussion writing. With its steady tempo, accessible key, and dynamic musical storytelling, it’s a versatile choice for concert or contest settings.

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25:21

Byzantine Dances

Band BFFs ·

2025/07/14

We open Season 3 with a great Texas PML grade 2! In this episode of Band BFFs, the hosts explore Byzantine Dances by Carol Brittin Chambers—a vibrant, high-energy piece full of stylistic variety, engaging percussion, and even some snaps and claps! They break down its structure, discuss rehearsal strategies for articulation, breathing, and highlight its versatility for concerts, UIL, or region band.

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23:58

Sunchaser

Band BFFs ·

2025/06/23

In this episode of Band BFFs, the hosts spotlight Sunchaser by Carol Brittin Chambers, a vibrant and fast-paced piece that radiates optimism and sunshine. With driving rhythms,key changes, style changes, and exciting parts for every section, it’s a perfect opener or closer to energize your concert program.

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15:36

Darklands March

Band BFFs ·

2025/06/16

In this episode of Band BFFs, the hosts explore Darklands March by Randall Standridge, a brisk, dramatic piece that blends traditional march structure with a darker tone. They highlight its strong teaching potential, varied instrumentation, and engaging parts for all sections—especially percussion and low voices. With its versatility for both concert and contest settings, this march offers both musical depth and student appeal.

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22:24

Hypnotic Fireflies

Band BFFs ·

2025/06/09

In this episode of Band BFFs, the hosts dive into Hypnotic Fireflies by Brian Balmages, describing it as cinematic and rhythmically mesmerizing. They break down the piece’s layered textures, percussion demands—including a creative amplified slinky effect—and highlight the importance of piano and mallet instruments throughout. Special guest Nathan Lewis shares how to build a DIY slinky amplifier, adding practical insight to performing this unique and colorful composition.

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14:48

Atlantis

Band BFFs ·

2025/05/12

Looking for a beautiful Grade 1 piece that introduces your students to expressive playing, color chords, and dynamic nuance? In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore Atlantis by Anne McGinty—a Texas PML staple full of rich harmonies, independent lines, and sneaky challenges that demand mature tone and balance. Learn how to elevate your ensemble’s sound with this rite-of-passage piece.

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31:28

Blue Ridge Reel

Band BFFs ·

2025/05/05

Looking for a high-energy, toe-tapping piece that challenges your top-notch performers? In this episode of Band BFFs, we dive into Brian Balmages’ Blue Ridge Reel—a fast-paced Texas Grade 2 full of style, syncopation, and percussion-driven groove. Learn how to prep your students for success and bring this barn-dance-inspired showstopper to life.

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17:54

The Jester's Galop

Band BFFs ·

2025/04/28

Need a dynamic, flexible march for your next concert or contest? In this episode of Band BFFs, we explore The Jester’s Gallop by Jack Wilds—a fast-paced, percussion-rich piece that’s easy to teach but sounds impressively complex. Tune in for teaching tips, performance ideas, and creative ways to bring this clever gallop to life.

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24:06

Spring Concert Ideas - Medium Easy

Band BFFs ·

2025/04/21

Looking for fresh, engaging music for your beginner or non-varsity band? In this episode of Band BFFs, we review two standout concert pieces—Mama Paquita and The Dragon Lord—that bring energy, variety, and valuable teaching moments to your next performance. Tune in for practical insights on rhythm challenges, instrumentation tips, and how to make each piece a student favorite.

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19:21

Spring Concert Ideas - Easy

Band BFFs ·

2025/04/14

Looking for the perfect spring concert piece for your beginner band? In this episode of Band BFFs, we review two crowd-pleasers—Tambora by William Owens and Alpha Squadron by Greg Hillis—that are fun, accessible, and sound impressive on stage. Tune in to hear why your students will love them and how to make the most of each piece.4o

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97 results

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