Miriam Danced by the Red Sea for Concert Band

Duration: 3:00 Minutes

Grade: 4

In composing Miriam Danced by the Red Sea, I sought to capture the essence of Israeli dance, tracing its lineage from the ancient tradition of Jewish women's dances to its vibrant presence today. Originally written in 2023 for the Adams/Cumberland County Music Educators Association high school county orchestra, this piece is a lively and rhythmic celebration of cultural heritage. It draws inspiration from the biblical story of Miriam, who led the women in dance and song after crossing the Red Sea, symbolizing joy and liberation. The music aims to evoke the communal and spirited character of Jewish women's dances throughout history, celebrating the role of women and music in our tradition.

This concert band arrangement was made in 2026. Miriam Danced by the Red Sea is a celebration of resilience, communal joy, and the enduring spirit of a culture that continues to inspire and move us.

Instrumentation:

Flute Oboe Bassoon (optional) Bb Clarinet 1 Bb Clarinet 2 Bb Clarinet 3 Bb Bass Clarinet Eb Alto Saxophone 1 Eb Alto Saxophone 2 Bb Tenor Saxophone Eb Baritone Saxophone

Bb Trumpet 1 Bb Trumpet 2 French Horn Trombone 1 Trombone 2 Euphonium Tuba Contrabass (optional)

Timpani Mallets 1 - Marimba Mallets 2 - Xylophone Percussion 1 - Djembe, Bass Drum, Snare Drum Percussion 2 - Tambourine Percussion 3 - Hi-hat and Suspended Cymbal

Performance Notes:

• Percussion Notation: The Djembe, Snare Drum, and Bass Drum parts are notated on a single four-line staff and are intended for one player: Djembe (or Darbuka, or Congas) played by hand, with Snare Drum and Bass Drum mounted and played with sticks.
• Tambourine: The Tambourine part employs two distinct techniques: traditional rolls executed with the non-holding hand, and shake rolls with the holding hand. In measures 101–109 and 124–131, sforzati are performed with the non-holding hand.
• Marimba and Xylophone: Tenuto and staccato markings in the Marimba and Xylophone parts are intentional and mirror the articulations in the wind parts.