With You

With You captures and celebrates the essence of the ensemble experience: making music with one another. A somber setting evolves into soaring melodies to invite musicality and expression, while providing challenges for groups of varying levels of experience. This work offers a sense of hope beyond tragedy and honors the unbreakable bond of band.

Program Notes

On October 28, 2017, the day of the Kentucky Music Educators Association State Marching Band Championships, two members of the Madisonville-North Hopkins High School Band Alumni were in a car accident. The news of this accident, and the loss of an alumna's life, quickly spread across the state. Immediately, every Kentucky band was reminded that we are all one band family. We grieved with the Madisonville community, and hugged our own just a little tighter that day. I did not know these students, and am not affiliated with that band program. However, when one band family hurts all band families hurt. The MNHHS Band Supporters have an iconic cheer in the stands: "Who ya with? Madville! Who ya with? Madville! WHO YA WITH? MADVILLE!" The unequivocal rallying cry that night for state finals was that every band fan in the bleachers was . That had nothing to do with competition or rivalries. We have a greater family unlike no other, and this event reminded me yet again just how special that truly is. Those of us involved in the band world must always strive to be the most decent, compassionate citizens in our society. This level of decency and compassion, though, must be instilled early on in the band experience. I have reflected intensely about how high school band functions (e.g. marching band, concert band, various performance ensembles) provide an innate sense of family and community in the schools. Those of us who continue to be involved with these activities were moved in some way, and at some point, by the beauty of our art. We discovered ourselves and found a sense of belonging and purpose. To those who play this piece, I want you to take time to reflect on your band family. I hope it allows you to sit still and count your blessings. Make unforgettable memories. Don't forget to have fun, and don't take for granted the opportunity to make music together. It is truly a gift. I am honored to share this work "with you."

-B.L.

Grade Level: 2
Copyright: 2020
Duration: 3:00

Listen to Recordings

Sample PDF

Watch Video

Instrumentation

Flute
Oboe (optional)
Bassoon (optional)
B-flat Clarinet 1
B-flat Clarinet 2
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

B-flat Trumpet 1
B-flat Trumpet 2
F Horn
Trombone 1
Trombone 2
Euphonium
T.C. Baritone
Tuba

Timpani (4 drums)
Glockenspiel
Vibraphone (optional)
Chimes (optional)
Percussion 1 & 2: Snare Drum, Bass Drum
Percussion 3 (optional): Wind Chimes, Suspended Cymbal