by Claude T. Smith
Disc: SMITH CONDUCTS SMITH: THE MUSIC OF CLAUDE T. SMITH VOLUME 3: THE SACRED BAND
Recording: Recording: University of Kansas Symphonic Band & Southwestern State University Wind Symphony
Conductors: Robert E. Foster & Dr. James W. Jurrens
Publisher: MARK Vintage Series (reissued from Golden Crest) 55993-MCD
The third recording in this excellent series of Claude T. Smith focuses on the sacred band works.One mere recording only scratches the surface of Smith’s extensive sacred band repertoire. Greensleeves: A Symphonic Setting appears in a fresh new take that will give your band something different from its very familiar arrangement by another legendary band composer. Symphonic Psalm contains an original choral melody between two rhythmic and powerful Allegro settings. A similar format appears in Anthem for Winds and Percussion; one of Smith’s more frequently performed works. Intrada: Adoration and Praise features variations on “Praise to the Lord, The Almighty” (optional antiphonal brass and string parts could be included). Rejoice in Glorious Hope is based on “Rejoice the Lord is King” and was commissioned by Wingert-Jones Music Inc. (a longtime publisher of many Smith compositions). Overture on an Early American Folk Hymn (My Shepherd Will Supply My Need) is one of Smith’s most popular compositions for band and is a superb opening work. This ongoing Smith series just keeps getting better and better.
