Inspirare (world premiere)

Grade 4 | 5’15”

Inspirare (Latin for inspire) was commissioned by Robert Herrings and the Vista Ridge High School Band to celebrate the fine arts programs of Leander Independent School District, located just north of Austin, Texas—a community long recognized for its excellence in music, theatre, and visual arts. The title evokes both the academic spirit and creative energy that define the district’s artistic legacy. The Leander ISD Fine Arts motto—Innovate, Ignite, Inspire—serves as the guiding framework for the composition, with the form of the piece unfolding around those three ideals. The final word, Inspire, becomes the emotional centerpiece and the source of the work’s title.

The piece unfolds in four sections—a Maestoso fanfare, a mixed-meter allegro, a lyrical middle section, and a final recap that weaves the opening ideas together. Each section represents one of the district’s guiding principles, creating a musical journey through innovation, creativity, and inspiration. Throughout the work, brief motifs inspired by each Leander ISD high school fight song and alma mater appear, symbolizing the unity and shared purpose of the district’s vibrant fine arts community. Most notably, themes from the Vista Ridge Fight Song honor the school and director who commissioned the piece, while the Cedar Park School Song serves as a personal tribute to my nearly ten years as band director there.

The opening fanfare, Inspire, introduces the central four-note motif (Sol–Do–Mi–Re) in the trumpet section. This idea spreads throughout the ensemble as each section “inspires” the next, capturing the sense of momentum and collaboration that defines Leander ISD’s musical culture. The following section, Innovate, transforms the main motif into a playful, mixed-meter dance that celebrates creativity and forward thinking. The lyrical third section, Ignite, reflects the spark that teachers ignite in their students—the moment when music becomes a lifelong passion. Here, fragments of the Vista Ridge Fight Song intertwine with the Inspire motif, shaped with warmth and breath, echoing the Latin root of Inspirare: “to breathe life into.”

The final section provides a powerful recap of earlier ideas, as the call-and-response texture returns, and each section propels the music forward toward a triumphant conclusion. In the end, Inspirare stands as both a musical and symbolic tribute to Leander ISD’s legacy of excellence—a celebration of the teachers and students who continue to innovate, ignite, and inspire through the arts.

To be performed by the Vista Ridge HS Band, from Cedar Park, Texas, under the direction of Robert Herrings. Join us on Friday, December 19th, at 2:15 pm in W375AB!

About the Vista Ridge HS Wind Ensemble

The Vista Ridge High School Wind Ensemble is the premier concert ensemble within the Vista Ridge High School Band program, made up of students in grades 9–12 selected through a rigorous audition process each spring and fall. A strong focus on recruitment, retention, and high-quality teaching at every level has allowed each of the program’s four performing ensembles to thrive. The vertical team includes Henry and Stiles Middle Schools—both with a legacy of excellence and multiple Midwest Clinic performances. This year’s ensemble features 27 Region Band members and 10 All-State musicians from one of Texas’s most competitive TMEA regions. Vista Ridge students consistently excel academically, often ranking in the top 10% of their class. The program emphasizes developing the individual musician through weekly master classes, chamber ensembles, and solo performance opportunities such as the Vista Ridge Young Artist Contest.

Under the direction of Robert Tyrome Herrings III, the ensemble continues a tradition of musical and academic excellence built on the values of integrity, respect, and accountability. Mr. Herrings, a Baylor University graduate and longtime Leander ISD educator, has earned national recognition for his work with the Artie Henry Middle School Band, including multiple TMEA Honor Band titles and performances at the Midwest Clinic. His passion for inspiring young musicians to achieve at the highest level drives the Vista Ridge program’s mission: to nurture musicianship, leadership, and lifelong artistry within a supportive, student-centered environment.

Light It Up! A Hard Rock Hanukkah

Grade 2 | 2’30”

Light It Up! A Hard Rock Hanukkah brings a fresh, electrifying twist to the holiday season. This piece takes two of the most beloved traditional Hanukkah melodies—Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah, and Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel—and transforms them into a high-octane rock spectacle. Drawing inspiration from legendary bands such as Queen and Led Zeppelin, along with the symphonic rock style of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, the work fuses classic holiday tunes with the raw power of hard rock.

With optional parts for electric guitar, bass, and a flexible drum set, this chart delivers all the punch of a holiday rock concert while staying accessible for school and community ensembles. Bold, festive, and guaranteed to bring down the house, Light It Up! is a holiday head-banger like no other.

As a young Jewish musician growing up in the United States, I performed countless Christmas selections during the holiday season. And, honestly, I enjoyed every one of them! The concert band repertoire features a wealth of expertly crafted pieces based on melodies and themes connected to Christmas. However, there are noticeably fewer chances for Jewish musicians to perform music rooted in their own cultural heritage. I hope that by creating this work, Jewish musicians will have the chance to perform music from their background, while all musicians unite in a musical celebration of the joy and wonder of the holiday season!

To be performed by the Leander MS Band, from Leander, Texas, under the direction of Liz Love. Join us on Wednesday, December 17th, at 1:30 pm in W375E!

About the Leander MS Concert Band

The Leander Middle School Honors Band represents a vibrant and diverse community of young musicians dedicated to musical excellence and personal growth. With only 860 students on campus and a single elective option, the 280-member band program truly serves as a home away from home. The student population is diverse—35% Hispanic, 7% Black, 7% Asian, 7% multiracial, and 44% white—and the program reflects the same inclusivity and spirit. Over 35% of students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, yet every child is supported through provided supplies, private lesson scholarships, and financial assistance. The program includes three ability-based advanced bands and homogeneous beginner classes, and many students are also active in National Junior Honor Society, athletics, cheer, and other campus organizations. The curriculum emphasizes musicianship, character, and community—helping students leave the program as stronger musicians and better human beings.

Under the direction of Liz Love, the Leander Middle School Honors Band continues to set a high bar for artistry and education. A Nebraska native and accomplished saxophonist, Ms. Love has led the LMS program to national recognition, including its 2025 invitation to perform at The Midwest Clinic. Previously, her Grisham Middle School Honors Band performed there in 2019. A passionate educator, Ms. Love is also the founder of the Austin Saxophone Ensemble and ASEYouth, fostering collaboration and excellence among young musicians across the region. She has presented clinics at TMEA and TBA on topics ranging from mental health to the UIL Sight-Reading process and credits her parents—both music educators—for inspiring her lifelong love of teaching. Ms. Love lives in Cedar Park, Texas, with her husband, Walter, and continues to inspire students to make great music and live with purpose.

Jingle Jam

Grade 2 | 2’30”

If you want to get your audience clapping along, look no further! Jingle Jam is a feel-good holiday celebration that features many of your favorite classics, including “Up on the Housetop”, “Deck the Halls”, “The 12 Days of Christmas”, “O Tannenbaum”, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”, and of course, “Jingle Bells!” A host of percussion instruments ensures everyone feels the groove and prepares them to embrace the spirit of the season! Jingle Jam is the perfect way to conclude your holiday concert!

To be performed by the Canyon Ridge MS Band, from Austin, Texas, under the direction of Amy Allison Rivera. Join us on Thursday, December 18th, at 2:00 pm in W375E!

About the Canyon Ridge MS Concert Band

The Canyon Ridge Middle School Honor Band is the flagship ensemble of a thriving program that serves more than 300 students and is built on a mission to cultivate a lifelong love of music and support the future of the arts. Under the direction of Amy Allison-Rivera, the band program has achieved national recognition for excellence and artistry. The program includes four performing bands for seventh and eighth graders and nine beginning-band classes for sixth graders, all taught in homogeneous settings to provide focused instruction. Since its founding in 2004, the Canyon Ridge Band has been named the Texas Bandmasters Association Exemplary Middle School Band Program (2021), received the Sudler Silver Cup (2017), and performed at The Midwest Clinic (2014) and TMEA (2021). The Honor Band has also been named a National Winner in the National Wind Band Honors and consistently earns UIL sweepstakes ratings, with students excelling at Solo & Ensemble, All-Region Band, and All-Region Orchestra.

Amy Allison-Rivera, now in her 27th year of teaching and 25th in Leander ISD, has led the Canyon Ridge Middle School Band since the school’s opening. A graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, she has presented clinics for TMEA, TBA, and SFA, and serves as a respected clinician and adjudicator across Texas. Her dedication to musical growth and education has guided Canyon Ridge to become one of the state’s most accomplished middle school programs. Beyond teaching, Mrs. Allison-Rivera performs piccolo with the Cedar Park Winds, has served on UIL’s PML and sight-reading committees, and was inducted into Phi Beta Mu in 2011. She lives in Cedar Park, Texas, with her husband, Bert, and their dogs, Winston and Winnie, continuing to inspire young musicians to perform with skill, passion, and purpose.

A Simple Song at Sunrise, from “Florida Suite”

Grade 3 | 2’30”

A Simple Song at Sunrise, composed for DCI’s first-ever show featuring all original music, is now available for your concert band. This ballad from “A Florida Suite”, Robert W. Smith’s masterwork, has captivated audiences for decades and will do the same for yours. Envisioned as a sunrise over a Florida beach, Evan VanDoren’s beautifully orchestrated concert band setting truly honors the legacy of the original composer.

To be performed by the Canyon Ridge MS Band, from Austin, Texas, under the direction of Amy Allison Rivera. Join us on Thursday, December 18th, at 2:00 pm in W375E!

About Robert W. Smith

Robert William Smith (October 24, 1958 – September 21, 2023) was a towering figure in the world of concert band, marching band, and wind-ensemble composition. Born in Daleville, Alabama, he began playing trumpet and studied music at Troy State University (now Troy University), where he played lead trumpet with the “Sound of the South” marching band and studied composition under Paul Yoder.

Over his career, Smith authored over 600 published works (some sources say 700+), making him one of the most prolific composers of American wind-band literature. (RWS Music) His catalog spans beginner ensembles to advanced university bands, and his pieces are performed by school, college, military and professional ensembles worldwide. (edrmartin.com)

Smith’s compositional voice ranged from large-scale symphonic works for wind band (such as Symphony No. 1 “The Divine Comedy”, Symphony No. 2 “The Odyssey”, and Symphony No. 3 “Don Quixote”) to educational pieces designed to develop technique and musicality at the middle-school level (titles like The Tempest, Encanto, The Great Locomotive Chase). (RWS Music)

In addition to composing, Smith had substantial roles in music education and publishing: he served as Coordinator of the Music Industry Program at Troy University, Vice-President of Product Development for C.L. Barnhouse, and CEO/President of RWS Music. (Troy Today) His teaching, mentoring, and global clinics extended his influence, helping younger composers, directors, and performers carry forward his passion for excellence and creativity. (bandworld.org)

Smith passed away from complications after heart surgery on September 21, 2023, in Montgomery, Alabama. While his output was vast, it is his combination of melodic accessibility, dramatic form, educational sensitivity, and leadership in the wind-band world that secure his legacy. His music continues to inspire band directors, students, and performers, offering both challenge and reward.

For band directors, Smith’s work offers a rich template: compositions that connect emotionally, teach musically, and serve performance—all characteristics that align with the best marching band shows and concert performances alike.

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It’s a privilege to have this music included among so many distinguished composers and educators whose works continue to shape music education in Texas and beyond. I hope these pieces bring meaningful musical experiences to directors and students across the state.

Luminosities

Luminosities is an electrifying overture for a mature wind ensemble that masterfully encapsulates the mesmerizing vibrance and comforting warmth of light itself. Bursting with triumphant brass fanfares, lively rhythmic exchanges, and vivid color flourishes, this composition promises to set a riveting tone as the opening act of any concert. Echoing a powerful message of hope, this brilliant work is sure to inspire both listeners and musicians to radiate their unique light.

Grade 5 | 2’30”

Finale, from Symphony No. 3 (Organ)

The “Finale” from Saint-Saëns’ 3rd Symphony (“with Organ”) is a shimmering, sparkling explosion of color that stands out among the classical repertoire as one of its most exciting endings!  Evan VanDoren has masterfully captured Saint-Saëns’ unique compositional color and style, adjusting the key for maximum playability, while staying true to the original work!

Grade 5 | 8′

Prophetic Dances

Fables of those who foretold the future permeate ancient myths, legends, and folklore across cultures and centuries. With methods shrouded in darkened mystery, these oracles held powerful places in ancient societies, pulling on the various threads of power, often with malevolent intent. “Prophetic Dances” creatively captures the enigmatic, zealous, otherworldly nature of these cryptic seers lost to time.

Grade 4 | 6’30”

She Loves The Light

Feature the sound and sonority of your young band with this emotional, lyrical work.  Colorful harmonies, flowing lines, unique percussive textures, and clever scoring make She Loves the Light an ideal musical tribute for someone special to your program or community.

Grade 3 | 5’30”

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Each year, the team at Bandworld Magazine and the Western International Band Clinic (WIBC) evaluates hundreds of new compositions and arrangements from across the country. The top 100 are featured in Bandworld’s annual issue and highlighted at the WIBC convention in Seattle, bringing together band directors from more than 40 states to explore the year’s best new music.

A Tribute to Robert W. Smith

“Simple Song” was originally composed by Robert W. Smith, whose influence on the band world can hardly be overstated. From his epic symphonic works to his lyrical, deeply human writing, Robert had a gift for connecting performers and audiences alike.

His passing in 2024 left a profound void in the music education community, but his legacy continues through the countless musicians and educators he inspired. This recognition by Bandworld feels like a small but meaningful way to honor his life’s work.

If you’re not familiar with the original piece, you can find it on rwsmusic.com. I hope my arrangement helps new generations of musicians experience the same beauty and sincerity that made Robert’s music so special.

About the Bandworld Top 100

The Bandworld Top 100 is one of the most respected recognitions in the concert band world. Each year, editors and educators at Bandworld Magazine evaluate hundreds of new and reissued titles. Their selections highlight works that demonstrate exceptional craft, emotional depth, and educational value for ensembles of all levels.

The list has become a trusted resource for band directors seeking meaningful, high-quality literature for their programs. To see Simple Song alongside so many incredible works from composers and arrangers I deeply admire is truly humbling.

Continuing the Legacy

As an arranger and composer, I’ve always believed that music connects us across time — between mentors and students, composers and conductors, past and present. This project was one of those moments that reminded me why we do what we do: to make music that means something.

Robert W. Smith’s influence lives on in every young musician who learns to phrase with care, listen deeply, and play with purpose. I’m grateful to play a small role in keeping his music alive through performance and sharing.

You can explore more of my concert band works at evanvandoren.com/music.

About Evan VanDoren

Evan VanDoren is a composer, arranger, and educator based in Texas. His works for concert and marching band are performed by ensembles across the United States. Learn more at evanvandoren.com.

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As the winter season approaches, band directors everywhere are preparing for one of the most anticipated events of the year: the winter concert. These performances are the perfect chance to highlight your ensemble’s hard work and bring festive cheer to your community. Selecting the right concert band repertoire is crucial to crafting a program that engages students and captivates audiences. In this post, you’ll discover a selection of engaging new winter concert pieces for concert band that will inspire your musicians and make your holiday performance unforgettable.

Ho-Ho-Ho, Cha-Cha-Cha!

With lots of percussion and using just the first 6 notes of the Bb major scale, this fun, upbeat piece is perfect for your students’ first winter concert! Your audience will enjoy seeing their young musicians perform this blend of “Up on the Housetop” and “Deck the Halls” with a Latin flair! Come join in the holiday fun!

Grade 0.5 | 1:30

Light The Menorah!

Join in a vibrant celebration of Hanukkah! Colorful, lush harmonies give way to a rousing, lively dance sure to get the audience to its feet! “Ner Li” (I have a candle), “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah,” and “Hava Nagila” (Let us rejoice) blend together into a musical tapestry embodying the joy and rich traditions of the holiday. Invite your audience to Light The Menorah at your next winter concert!

Grade 4 | 5:30

Jingle Jam

If you want to get your audience clapping along, look no further! Jingle Jam is a feel-good holiday celebration that features many of your favorite classics, including “Up on the Housetop,” “Deck the Halls,” “The 12 Days of Christmas”, “O Tannenbaum,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” and of course, “Jingle Bells!” A host of percussion instruments ensures everyone feels the groove and prepares them to embrace the spirit of the season! Jingle Jam is the perfect way to conclude your holiday concert!

Grade 2 | 2:30 | JWPepper Editor’s Choice 2024

“Not So Silent Night”

Every child imagines witnessing Santa Claus coming down the chimney, delivering presents under the tree, and enjoying milk and cookies. This programmatic work envisions a movie-like soundtrack to these events… until things take an unexpected turn.

Our scene begins with Santa descending down the chimney, cautiously taking in his new surroundings to avoid waking the home’s sleeping residents. He tiptoes around the house, humming Christmas tunes like “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Up on the Housetop” under his breath. Carefully placing the presents under the tree, he briefly pauses to ensure no one is awakened. As time passes, Santa becomes more comfortable with his surroundings and becomes less conscious of the noise he makes. Eventually, he breaks into full-throated, merry singing as he continues his work.

Suddenly, Santa becomes very aware he’s not the only one in the room!  Around the corner peers a newly awakened pet dog, and not a friendly one!  Panic sets in as Santa collects himself, and a full-blown chase breaks out as Santa makes for his exit!  After a prolonged chase around the house, Santa makes his way up the chimney and out of the house! With a sense of relief, Santa and his reindeer fly off to the next house, where further antics no doubt await in what has become a Not So Silent Night.

Starting with a clever tango and ending with a cartoon-esque chase scene, this winter concert music will engage the imagination of your students and audience alike!

Grade 3 | 4:30 | JWPepper Editor’s Choice 2023

“Fanfare for the Festival of Lights”

“Fanfare for the Festival of Lights” weaves two traditional Hanukkah melodies into a colorful, rousing celebration!  “Ma’oz Tzur”, translated, means “rock of ages”, and hints at the strength of faith felt by the Jewish people when reflecting on the story of Hanukkah.  In contrast, “The Dreidel Song” leans into the more playful side of the Hanukkah holiday, referencing a song about a popular children’s game. 

The composer writes, “As a young Jewish musician growing up in the United States, I performed an untold number of Christmas selections around the holiday season.  And, truthfully, I enjoyed them all!  The concert band repertoire includes a wealth of masterfully crafted selections composed and arranged from melodies and concepts tied to the Christmas holiday.  However, there are decidedly fewer opportunities for young Jewish musicians to perform music derived from their own cultural and religious heritage. My hope is that through creating this brief work, Jewish musicians will have the opportunity to perform music from their background while all musicians join together in a musical celebration of the joy and awe of the holiday season!”

Grade 3.5 | 2:30 | JWPepper Editor’s Choice 2022 | Bandworld Top 100

A preview of something new…

I recently finished a commission for a new Hanukkah-themed work, “Light It Up: A Hard Rock Hanukkah!” This work will premiere in December 2025 at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago and will be available for purchase next summer (June 2026).

A little bit about the work…

Light It Up! A Hard Rock Hanukkah brings a fresh, electrifying twist to the holiday season. This piece takes two of the most beloved traditional Hanukkah melodies—Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah, and Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel—and transforms them into a high-octane rock spectacle. Drawing inspiration from legendary bands such as Queen and Led Zeppelin, as well as the symphonic rock style of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, the work fuses classic holiday tunes with the raw power of hard rock.

With optional parts for electric guitar, bass, and a flexible drum set, this chart delivers all the punch of a holiday rock concert while staying accessible for school and community ensembles. Bold, festive, and guaranteed to bring down the house, Light It Up! is a holiday head-banger like no other.

For some background on Hanukkah, see the lyrics of “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah”:

Hanukkah, oh Hanukkah, come light the menorah*,

Let’s have a party, we’ll all dance the hora*

Gather ’round the table, we’ll give you a treat,

Sivivon* to play with and latkes* to eat.

* A menorah is a candelabrum with nine branches. During Hanukkah, an eight-night holiday, one candle is lit each night until, on the final night, all eight candles are lit simultaneously. A ninth candle, called the “shamash” (helper), is used to light the other candles each night. The menorah commemorates the miracle of the Temple’s oil lasting eight days.

* The Hora is a traditional Jewish circle dance commonly performed during joyful celebrations.

* Sivivon is the Hebrew word for “dreidel,” a four-sided spinning top traditionally played with during Hanukkah.

* Latkes are potato pancakes made from grated potatoes and other ingredients, fried in oil until crispy. This traditional Hanukkah treat symbolizes the miracle of Hanukkah, when a small amount of oil miraculously lasted eight days in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem.

From the composer

As a young Jewish musician growing up in the United States, I performed countless Christmas selections during the holiday season. And, honestly, I enjoyed every one of them! The concert band repertoire features a wealth of expertly crafted pieces based on melodies and themes connected to Christmas. However, there are noticeably fewer chances for Jewish musicians to perform music rooted in their own cultural heritage. I hope that by creating this work, Jewish musicians will have the opportunity to perform music from their heritage, while all musicians unite in a musical celebration of the joy and wonder of the holiday season.

This work was commissioned by the Leander Middle School Band from Leander, Texas, under the direction of Liz Love, and premiered at the 2025 Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What makes a great winter concert program for a concert band?
A: A successful winter concert balances festive energy with musical variety. Including both holiday favorites and fresh new works keeps students engaged while giving the audience a memorable experience.

Q: Are there options for Hanukkah-themed concert band music?
A: Yes! Works like “Light The Menorah!“, “Fanfare for the Festival of Lights”, and “Light It Up: A Hard Rock Hanukkah!” celebrate Jewish traditions while offering ensembles vibrant, accessible repertoire that complements traditional Christmas selections.

Q: What grade levels are these pieces written for?
A: The featured selections range from Grade 2 to Grade 4, making them suitable for middle school, high school, and community ensembles. Each piece offers engaging material while remaining playable for its intended level.

Q: Which piece works best as a concert closer?
A: Jingle Jam is a crowd favorite for closing your program. Its upbeat energy, familiar holiday tunes, and audience participation opportunities make it the perfect finale for a winter concert.

Q: How long are these winter concert pieces?
A: Each work varies in length, giving directors flexibility when planning programs. For example, Jingle Jam runs about 2:30, Not So Silent Night about 4:30, Light the Menorah! about 5:30, and Fanfare for the Festival of Lights about 2:30.

Q: Can I include optional instruments like a guitar or a drum set in a winter concert?
A: Yes! Light It Up: A Hard Rock Hanukkah! includes optional parts for electric guitar, bass, and drum set, giving your ensemble the flexibility to create a high-energy rock concert feel while still being accessible for school and community bands.

Q: Where can I purchase these concert band selections?
A: Most of the featured works are available through RWS Music. Commissioned works, such as Light It Up!, will be available in summer 2026 following their Midwest Clinic premiere.

Conclusion

Winter concerts are a chance for concert bands to shine—bringing music, energy, and joy to the season. By programming fresh and engaging selections, you give your students an opportunity to grow musically while offering your audience an experience they won’t soon forget. These new winter concert pieces are designed to capture the spirit of the season, from snowy landscapes to holiday celebrations, making your program both meaningful and memorable. Now’s the perfect time to dive into the music, inspire your ensemble, and prepare a winter concert that will truly resonate with your community.

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Elysian Fields

Commissioned by Argyle HS | Argyle, TX

Transcend the mortal realm in a breathtaking journey through fate and triumph. “Elysian Fields” draws upon Gustav Mahler’s monumental Resurrection Symphony, one of his greatest works ever written, to tell the story of a noble soul’s passage from life to judgment, and finally into the golden paradise of Elysium. Sweeping melodies and powerful imagery create an ethereal performance that lifts both performer and audience toward eternal glory.

Fractured

Commissioned by Wakeland HS | Frisco, TX

Light shatters into a thousand reflections as shards collide in sound and motion. “Fractured” transforms broken pieces into a breathtaking display of chaos and clarity—sharp visual effects, shifting perspectives, and moments of striking beauty. Rather than seeking repair, the fragments themselves become the art, each one essential, powerful, and whole.

Frozen in Time

Commissioned by Legacy Ranch HS | Liberty Hill, TX

“Frozen in Time” captures the wonder of a snow globe brought to life—where stillness gives way to motion and magic lingers in the air. Sparkling visuals and sweeping music shift from delicate calm to swirling chaos, then back to serene beauty. Whimsy, nostalgia, and enchantment collide in a production that feels both timeless and unforgettable.

Imagine

Commissioned by Eaton HS | Haslet, TX

Wonder, curiosity, and possibility come alive in “Imagine”. Bright colors and playful sounds capture the joys of childhood daydreams, while lyrical moments reflect on hopes for the future. As the production unfolds, imagination reveals its true power—to transform, to inspire, and to create worlds beyond what we see.

Light & Shadow

Commissioned by Madison HS | San Antonio, TX

Heaven and hell collide as angels and demons clash in “Light and Shadow”. Radiant fanfares rise against shadowed, menacing themes, each force pressing harder in the struggle for dominance. Beauty and terror trade blows, each rising to greater heights, until the final question lingers in the air: who will triumph?

Listen

Commissioned by Cedar Park HS | Cedar Park, TX

“The only way out is through…” Robert Frost’s timeless words set the stage for “Listen”, a powerful journey from innocence to self-awareness. Featuring the gripping symphonic intensity of Dmitri Shostakovich and the iconic melodies of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods, this production weaves bold, dark orchestral colors with familiar storytelling charm. As students venture into the metaphorical forest, they confront desires, challenges, and revelations—emerging transformed in a finale that is as unforgettable as it is profound.

Midnight

Commissioned by Reedy HS | Frisco, TX

Beware the hour when shadows lengthen and chimes toll, for the veil is thinnest at midnight. As the clock strikes twelve, a curse awakens restless spirits bound to the darkness. “Midnight” weaves suspense, sorrow, and electrifying energy into a supernatural spectacle—haunting whispers, frenzied dances, and a finale that vanishes into the night, leaving only echoes in its wake.

Moonlight’s Call

Commissioned by Clear Lake HS | Houston, TX

The moon rises with an ancient power that beckons the wild to awaken. “Moonlight’s Call” surrounds the field with eerie harmonies, shifting shadows, and a hypnotic energy that grows ever more intense. As the night deepens, crimson light spills across the sky and a chilling howl breaks the silence—an omen, or a reckoning.

On Air

Commissioned by Wylie HS | Wylie, TX

“On Air” brings the golden age of radio to life with glowing towers, retro microphones, and the iconic broadcast light shining center stage. The field buzzes with variety—dazzling fanfares, soulful ballads, breaking news flashes, and playful variety-hour antics. Brimming with color, style, and personality, this production crackles with energy and captures radio at its peak.

Paradox

Commissioned by Goshen HS | Goshen, IN

Illusion, transformation, and contradiction collide in “Paradox”. Inspired by the mind-bending complexity of Escher’s art, the field becomes a canvas of shifting forms and seamless transitions. Shapeshifters emerge with ever-changing personas, their identities twisting in and out of focus. Nothing is fixed—every move reshapes reality, creating a performance that is as disorienting as it is mesmerizing.

Perplex

Commissioned by Waxahachie HS | Waxahachie, TX

Patterns twist, collide, and dissolve into uncertainty as “Perplex” blurs the line between chaos and control. Fragmented ideas rise and fall, pulling the audience into an unfolding riddle where tension builds with every phrase. In the end, clarity cuts through the mystery, revealing beauty hidden within the confusion.

Short Circuit

Commissioned by Langham Creek HS | Houston, TX

Wires spark, currents surge, and energy ignites in “Short Circuit”. Precision and flow drive the performance forward, building from the careful construction of a circuit to the graceful charge of electricity in motion. The voltage rises to a chaotic overload before everything fuses together in a finale crackling with power.

Sonic Boom

Commissioned by Aledo HS | Aledo, TX

Strap in for a high-octane ride as “Sonic Boom” launches your audience into the thrilling world of fighter jets. Driving rhythms and electrifying drill capture the intensity of aerial combat, while jet props streak across the field in daring maneuvers. From the silent suspense of a stealth bomber’s glide to a thunderous finale that shakes the stands, this show is pure adrenaline from start to finish.

The Liminal Space

Commissioned by Rouse HS | Leander, TX

Caught between what was and what could be, “The Liminal Space” explores the tension, wonder, and uncertainty of transformation. Bold musical choices and evocative visuals immerse the audience in moments of transition—where boundaries blur, emotions shift, and every step feels like the brink of something entirely new.

Through Darkened Streets

Commissioned by Sharyland HS | Mission, TX

Neon flickers, footsteps echo, and the city’s hidden pulse comes alive in “Through Darkened Streets”. Beneath the streetlights, shadowed figures move through alleys and over rooftops, where elegance meets danger at every turn. Gritty, stylish, and charged with suspense, this production captures the restless energy of a city that never truly sleeps.

Wayfarers

Commissioned by Los Fresnos HS | Los Fresnos, TX

A lone traveler takes the field in “Wayfarers”, a visually striking and emotionally charged production about exploration, transformation, and the search for belonging. Shifting paths reveal moments of clarity, doubt, and change, leading to a powerful realization: the destination is never the end—the discovery lies in the voyage itself.

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The American Prize is a national competition that recognizes excellence in the performing arts, with submissions from composers and ensembles nationwide. To have my work recognized on this stage is both humbling and inspiring.

About Luminosities

At its core, Luminosities explores the idea of light—how it reveals, transforms, and inspires us. Writing this piece gave me the opportunity to combine vibrant textures, bold brass sonorities, and moments of intimate reflection into a journey that challenges and uplifts performers and audiences alike.

Why This Recognition Matters

As a composer, my greatest joy is creating music that connects with people—whether that’s a premiere at a local high school, a performance at a national convention, or, in this case, recognition from a national panel of judges. This award is a meaningful reminder of why I do what I do: to help musicians and audiences experience something bigger than themselves through music.

What’s Next

I’m excited to continue sharing Luminosities and my other works with ensembles across the country. If you’d like to learn more about my music or explore how it might fit into your program, visit evanvandoren.com/music!

Thank you to the performers, directors, colleagues, and friends who have supported me on this journey. I’m thrilled to celebrate this recognition and even more excited for what’s ahead.

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We Belong

Exciting, expressive, and packed with colorful harmonies, We Belong celebrates the special kind of magic experienced when you’re part of a band community of caring, empathetic individuals with a shared purpose. More than ever, the band hall serves as a beacon of hope and positivity, reminding us of the power of community and the importance of spaces where everyone is welcome. With captivating melodies, catchy rhythms, and approachable orchestration, We Belong is the perfect piece to program for your next concert!

Grade 2 | 3:30

A Simple Song at Sunrise

from “Florida Suite”, by Robert W Smith, setting by Evan VanDoren

A Simple Song at Sunrise, composed for DCI’s first-ever show featuring all original music, is now available for your concert band. This ballad from “A Florida Suite”, Robert W. Smith’s masterwork, has captivated audiences for decades and will do the same for yours. Envisioned as a sunrise over a Florida beach, Evan VanDoren’s beautifully orchestrated concert band setting truly honors the legacy of the original composer.

Grade 3 | 2:30

Jingle Jam

If you want to get your audience clapping along, look no further! Jingle Jam is a feelgood holiday celebration that features many of your favorite classics, including “Up on the Housetop,” “Deck the Halls,” “The 12 Days of Christmas”, “O Tannenbaum,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” and of course, “Jingle Bells!” A host of percussion instruments ensures everyone feels the groove and prepares them to embrace the spirit of the season! Jingle Jam is the perfect way to conclude your holiday concert!

Grade 2 | 2:30

Horizons Untold (fanfare for wind band)

Horizons Untold perfectly captures the excitement of possibilities unknown! In crafting this brief concert opener, the goal was to create an inspirational piece that resonates with performers and listeners in various ways. Some may envision a journey, gazing optimistically toward the horizon, while others may feel a sense of celebration. Additionally, the composition may evoke a patriotic sentiment in some. Regardless of personal interpretation, the soaring melodies, bold fanfares, and shimmering flourishes of the piece will captivate and energize the audience, setting the stage for an unforgettable concert experience!

Grade 5 | 1:54

Not So Silent Night

Every child imagines witnessing Santa Claus coming down the chimney, delivering presents under the tree, and enjoying milk and cookies. This programmatic work envisions a movie-like soundtrack to these events… until things take an unexpected turn.

Our scene begins with Santa descending down the chimney, cautiously taking in his new surroundings to avoid waking the home’s sleeping residents. He tiptoes around the house, humming Christmas tunes like “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Up on the Housetop” under his breath. Carefully placing the presents under the tree, he briefly pauses to ensure no one is awakened. As time passes, Santa becomes more comfortable with his surroundings, becoming less conscious of the noise he makes. Eventually, he breaks into full-throated merry singing as he continues his work.

Suddenly, Santa becomes very aware he’s not the only one in the room!  Around the corner peers a newly awakened pet dog and not a friendly one!  Panic sets in as Santa collects himself, and a full-blown chase breaks out as Santa makes for his exit!  After a prolonged chase around the house, Santa makes his way up the chimney and out of the house! With a sense of relief, Santa and his reindeer fly off to the next house, where further antics no doubt await in what has become a Not So Silent Night.

Starting with a clever tango and ending with a cartoon-esque chase scene, this witty work will engage the imagination of your students and audience alike!

Grade 3 | 4:30

Battle Volcano

Battle Volcano is an epic soundtrack encapsulating all that might be heard, seen, and felt when volcanoes attack!  With driving rhythms, edgy chromaticism, and intensity throughout, it’s my hope that students will embrace the battle of creating music that embodies the epic nature of a battle between volcanoes.

Grade 2.5 | 2:00

To Dare Greatly

The composer writes: “I’ve always been inspired by a famous speech, titled “The Man in the Arena”, by US President Theodore Roosevelt, delivered shortly after his presidency in 1910.  The most famous excerpt from this speech is as follows:

“It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actuallyin the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat.”

-Theodore Roosevelt; speech at the Sorbonne, Paris, France, April 23, 1910

These words have reverberated and inspired through history in a myriad of spaces; from presidents and politicians to sports figures, musical artists, tv commercials, motivational speakers, and beyond.

As a young person, and even still, the fear of failure is a daunting obstacle for me as it is with many others of all ages.  For those at the start of their musical journey, performing in front of an audience can be a major first hurdle on the road to success.  In writing To Dare Greatly, it was my aim to provide a vehicle for the beginning band musician to experience a successful first performance.  It is my hope that this composition, and the words that inspired it, will serve to embolden young musicians everywhere To Dare Greatly!”

Grade 1.5 | 1:30

Adventure Awaits (string orchestra)

Adventure Awaits captures the excitement felt at the start of something new!  The composer writes: “In writing this piece, I found myself imagining the many stories of long journeys told in books, television, movies, and beyond – some fantastical, and some based in reality.  In addition to drawing on these sources of inspiration, I hope performers and audience members alike draw on their own adventurous experiences, recalling those positive feelings at the beginning of exciting personal journeys!”

Grade 3 | 2:00

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“Prophetic Dances,” a Grade 4-level composition for concert band, is celebrated for its programmatic style and rich thematic inspiration drawn from ancient myths and the enigmatic seers who foretold the future. The piece, which lasts 6 minutes and 36 seconds, masterfully captures the mysterious and otherworldly essence of these cryptic oracles, weaving a sonic tapestry that resonates with performers and audiences alike.

The ABC WIBC Top 100 Project, curated by the American Band College and Western International Band Clinic, is an essential resource for band directors. It showcases over 2,400 meticulously evaluated pieces from more than 95 publishers. Inclusion in this prestigious list signifies excellence and the ability to inspire future musicians.

This marks the third time in three years Evan’s music has been selected! Previous selections include “Fanfare for the Festival of Lights” in 2022, and “Funeral March of a Marionette” in 2023.

You can check out the full list of selections from ABC Bandworld here!

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