This is the initial activity of the 5 & In ! initiative. In this, the musicians initially play a thematic chorale-like chord progression. From here, each subsequent activity retains this chord progression but adds rhythmic detail in a progressive manner.
5 & In ! is the ultimate “starter” band resource. It works on the premise that if a student can play and read 5 basic notes (sometimes less than5) they deserve to be “in the band !”
This resource includes parts for all brass instruments and is designed in such a way that these parts can be combined together to form a wholesome sounding, harmonically complete “band” for 3 to 30 (or more) brass players plus an optional drummer.
The resource begins with a series of short pieces based on an initial chordal theme – “Off to Band”, thereafter the subsequent (longer) ten pieces each embrace “One More Thing”. This “One More Thing” may be an accidental, anew articulation such as an accent or slur or contrasting dynamics – all to add musical interest.
As the “band” works its way through these pieces, my progressive aim is not to continually add more new notes / pitches to the mix, rather having kept the number of notes / pitches to a workable minimum, I seek to add musical and technical development (not to mention programmatic interest) by implementing the varied uses of “rhythm” to give each piece its own unique character.
5 & In ! enables the first steps to be made on an incredible musical journey
