Alfred Publishing

Composer: Chris M. Bernotas
Format: Score and Parts
Instrumentation: Concert Band (Flexible Band/String Ensemble)
Level: 3

This version of Ride Through the Valley by Chris Bernotas is part of the Alfred FLEX offerings and is designed with maximum flexibility for use by any mix of instruments---wind, strings, and percussion, including like- or mixed-ensembles with as few as 5 players. The suggested instrumentation and a customizable Teacher Map will help you plan out how to best assign parts to suit your ensemble's needs. It also comes with supplemental parts for maximum flexibility. With the purchase of this piece, permission is granted to photocopy the parts as needed for your ensemble. A percussion accompaniment track is also available as a free download. String parts have been carefully edited with extra fingerings and appropriate bowings to support students in mixed ensembles playing in less familiar keys.

The fast-paced opening of Bernotas' Ride Through the Valley builds momentum, leading to a bright and tuneful main theme. A lyrical contrasting section follows featuring a warmth of colours enhanced by vibraphone and gracefully cascading arpeggiated pyramids. A brief transition leads to a return of the main theme including a key change, bringing the piece to a driving conclusion.
Duration: 4:26