Brian Balmages

Symphonic Episodes

This three-movement work by Brian Balmages is transcribed from his earlier work for brass, entitled Symphony No. 1 for Brass. Mike Kilmartin made a superb transcription for brass band. The short opening movement establishes one of the main themes in the work before coming to a soft conclusion. The second movement can easily be performed on its own with its beautiful lyrical melodies and powerful emotional impact. The third movement makes use of themes heard throughout the other movements before coming to a grand conclusion. This is a particularly effective choice for contest and festival use.