El Camino RealAlfred Reed1rank/position

Alfred Reed: El Camino Real

This Latin fantasy by Alfred Reed, who made tremendous contributions to the American wind band world, overflows with Spanish passion.

A bold work in which Reed sought to reconstruct “true Spanish music” using the melodies and harmonies of traditional dance, it is extremely well-known as a free-choice piece in wind band competitions.

From the jota section that opens with lively rhythms marked by castanets, the piece moves to an original and beautiful middle section in the style of a fandango employing changing meters, then surges back to a climactic finish—an absolutely stunning progression.

Premiered in April 1985, this work captivates performers and audiences alike with its dramatic flair.

It’s a superb choice when you want to add brilliance to a concert program and ignite the hall with excitement.

Hound of SpringAlfred Reed2rank/position

Overture “The Hounds of Spring” / Alfred Reed

Among the many masterpieces by Alfred Reed, ‘A Springtime Celebration’ (Hounds of Spring) is one of his most popular works.

True to its spring-themed title, the light and lively rhythm at the opening is striking, making it a classic in the wind band repertoire.

Its brisk melody also makes it easy to enjoy for many listeners, including women.

Armenian Dances Part 1Alfred Reed3rank/position

Armenian Dances Part 1 / Alfred Reed — Armenian Dances Part 1, Ryukoku University Wind Ensemble

Armenian Dances is known as one of Alfred Reed’s signature works; he composed many pieces for wind band.

Although the piece is a suite divided into Part 1 and Part 2, many ensembles choose to perform Part 1 at wind band competitions because of its rich variety of musical character.

In Part 1, the final section in particular really raises the performers’ energy.

Viva Musica!Alfred Reed4rank/position

Viva Musica!.Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra.

Composed by Alfred Reed—renowned for Armenian Dances and El Camino Real—at the request of Chicago’s VanderCook College of Music, this work was premiered at the college’s 1983 concert.

As the title suggests, it is a playful piece that expresses the joy of music.

Concerto for Trumpet and Wind EnsembleAlfred Reed5rank/position

Alfred Reed: Concerto for Trumpet and Winds / Mvt 5

This is Alfred Reed’s Concerto for Trumpet and Wind Ensemble.

Composed by the master of the wind band world, Alfred Reed, it is a masterpiece that lets both the trumpet solo and the wind ensemble shine.

It consists of five movements: I.

Sonata, II.

Slow Blues, III.

Jazz Waltz, IV.

Song, and V.

Samba.

Armenian Dance, Part 2Alfred Reed6rank/position

Tokyo Seiwa Wind Orchestra “Armenian Dances Part 2”

A work by Mr.

A.

Reed.

It consists of three parts—Appeal of the Peasants, Wedding Dance, and Song for Lorie—each exhibiting a distinct color befitting its theme.

In wind band competitions, Song for Lorie is often performed and is characterized by its lively rhythms.

Prelude to the Music FestivalAlfred Reed7rank/position

1970 Fiscal Year Set Piece (Other Divisions) – Prelude of the Music Festival

The piece selected as the required work in 1970 was “A Festival Prelude,” composed by the American composer Alfred Reed.

It’s frequently performed in Japan, so many people with wind ensemble experience will likely be familiar with it.

It opens with a fanfare motif, showcasing the brilliant tones of the brass.

The main theme unfolds in an orchestral sound led by woodwinds, saxophones, and cornets.

A second fanfare then follows, allowing listeners to savor the grandeur of the performance more deeply.

Please lend an ear to its dynamic, beautiful sonorities, beloved across generations.