Resources

Solo & Ensemble is an opportunity for students to perform a solo or participate in a small ensemble (usually 2-6 players) on their band instrument. Solo & Ensemble will count as our third term performance.

Guidelines are as follows:

• All seniors will do a solo.  All band members may do a solo if they wish.

• Symphonic Band Members will perform a solo or participate in two ensembles.

• Concert Band members will participate in one event, either a solo or an ensemble.

• JV Band members will participate in one event, either a solo or an ensemble.

• Varsity Percussion Ensemble members will be in 2-4 assigned ensembles, and will also perform a solo. 

• JV Percussion members will be in 1-2 assigned ensembles, and will also perform a solo or small ensemble.  

• It is recommended that ensembles be made up of members in the same class.

• Maximum events per person will be 4 events, unless otherwise pre-approved.

• Students who wish to perform a solo and participate in an ensemble are encouraged to do so.

• Music must be appropriate for Festival. Most approved music is generally chamber (classical) music.  Pop, Broadway, movie soundtracks, etc. are not appropriate for Solo & Ensemble. Music for this purpose is constantly being released. Students are encouraged to explore new literature and find their own pieces.

• Solos are limited to a maximum of 6 minutes, ensembles 7 minutes including set up.

When is this happening?

Solo & Ensemble performances for Symphonic Band, Concert Band, and Reds Percussion will be the afternoon and evening February 19, 2025*.  Solo & Ensemble performances for JV Band and JV Percussion will be held February 18-20* during class time.  These performances will count as our Term 3 performance on students' grades.  Sign up sheets for time slots will be made available a few weeks before the performance dates.

Region Solo & Ensemble* will be hosted at Crimson Cliffs High School on March 6, 2024.  Events earning a superior rating at Region will qualify for State* which will be held at Provo High School on April 27, 2024. 

What should I wear when I perform? Do I have to dress up?

You are performing a mini concert, so you should look like a professional as much as you're trying to sound like one. It's easiest just to wear your concert black, especially if you're playing as a group. If you're playing solo, it's acceptable to wear a suit and tie, a dress, or other "dress up" outfits. 

I'm the accompanist. Do I have to dress up, too?

While you may not be the feature performer, you are a critical element to the success of the performance. No specific dress code is required, but it is recommended that you dress for a professional performance. 

Who am I performing for?

Students will perform for a qualified and experienced adjudicator.  Events deemed sufficiently prepared will have the opportunity to participate in Region Solo & Ensemble*, hosted at Crimson Cliffs High School on March 6, 2024.  Events earning a superior rating at Region will qualify for State* which will be held at Provo High School on April 27, 2024. 

Do I have to provide an original copy of my music to the adjudicator?

Yes. UHSAA rules state that you must have an original, legally purchased copy of the music. You give this to the adjudicator during performance. If you purchased (and downloaded) the music online, include a copy of the receipt or the site's license agreement with the music. Sometimes there is a notation, such as, "Sold to Keith Sorensen on 1/3/2024" at the bottom of the page, and that will suffice. 

How should I introduce myself?

Keep it simple and to the point. "Good afternoon. My name is Sarah Smith, and this is David Johnson. We will be performing, "Andante and Allegro," by Mozart, arranged by Harold Arkman."

What do I do when I'm finished playing?

Again, keep it simple. Smile, take a short bow (stare at your shoes and think, "My shoes are black today."), then stand up straight and keep smiling. After a few seconds, head for the door. No matter how well (or not) it went, save your reactions for the hallway. 

Where do we find music to perform?

1. It is strongly recommended that students find their own music - find something that you like!

2. Please do NOT use Musescore for solo and ensemble.

3. We have a small library of standard solo and ensemble music that is available for student use.  

4. If Smart Music is available, there is an extensive library of appropriate solo material with accompaniment that is strongly recommended. 

www.smartmusic.com 

There are many reliable music dealers where students can purchase music. Here are a few:

• www.jwpepper.com

• www.halleonard.com

• www.grandmesamusic.com

• www.kendormusic.com

Percussionists may find better luck on these websites:

• www.rowloff.com

• www.tapspace.com

• www.honeyrock.net

There are other websites that offer free sheet music downloads. Again, there are many. Here are a few that might work:

• www.imslp.com

• www.8notes.com

• www.flutetunes.com 

5. In addition, searching the web by event (eg. flute solo, or trumpet quartet, etc.) will take you to such sites.  Please make sure the music is appropriate.  If you are unsure, please send the link to Mr. Sorensen or your private teacher for review.

Solos are generally written with piano accompaniment.  Students performing a solo will need to find their own accompanist.  This could be a student, family member, neighbor etc.  It is standard protocol to ask them how much they charge.  Accompanists are very busy this time of year because orchestra and choir students are also working on solo & ensemble.  Many will not charge but it is appropriate and respectful to offer. Students should practice with their accompanist several times before performing.

A very small number of solos can be found that are written with no accompaniment.  However, they are usually extremely difficult and intended for college/professional players.

*All dates, locations, times, and formats are all subject to change. Current information will be provided.