The Hal Leonard Flex-Band Series features works that are scored with just five parts, plus percussion, that are playable with combinations of woodwinds, brass, or strings.
The series has over 140 titles in print, including several new titles that have been arranged for Grade 1.5 level bands. The newest releases for Grade 1.5 include “Christmas Time Is Here,” the Vince Guaraldi classic arranged by Michael Sweeney; “The Avengers,” Alan Silvestri’s powerful theme music arranged by Robert Longfield; “Celtic Air and Dance” featuring tuneful Irish melodies arranged by Michael Sweeney; “Circle of Life” (from “The Lion King”), Elton John’s classic arranged by Michael Sweeney; and “Pirates of the Caribbean” (from “The Curse of the Black Pearl”), Klaus Badelt’s powerful movie theme arranged by Michael Sweeney. All pieces retail for $45.
In addition, there are new titles for Grade 2 including original works by Michael Oare and Richard L. Saucedo and “I’m Still Standing,” the Elton John hit for Grade 3. Full scores and recordings for all these new Hal Leonard Flex-Band titles can be found at the Hal Leonard Concert Band YouTube channel.
Ukulele for Young Beginners: Easy Lessons for Kids by Jake Shimabukuro is designed to inspire and excite kids with their first step into a lifetime of making music. The books can be used by families or in a classroom setting. Each chapter includes a video lesson by Jake that’s accessed online where he provides age-appropriate instruction. The full-color book 9-inch x 6-inch book includes simple lessons with fretboard photos and fun supplemental activities to reinforce what the kids are learning from the videos. The songs include optional teacher chord frames so an adult can play along with the student making them sound even more professional. $9.99.
