Ashstorm and Nettlefire

Description

This easy piece has a strong and powerful melody that students will love, and is inspired by a fire-breathing dragon!

Program Notes

Our resident dragon expert is my oldest granddaughter. Immersed in dragon lore since she was very little, she is currently writing a graphic novel about dragons. So, when I wanted to write a piece about dragons, I naturally turned to my granddaughter, who quickly named my dragons “Ashstorm” and “Nettlefire.” She explained they were fierce, loyal dragonesses that lived deep in the ocean in a peaceful, thriving dragon community. However, my granddaughter cautioned me not to venture too close to their home in the deep, lest we find out exactly why our dragonesses are named Ashstorm and Nettlefire!

“Ashstorm and Nettlefire” is a fun piece for young band students as they approach their initial set of concerts as new musicians. Using only the first 6 notes of the concert B-flat scale, this piece is accessible in the beginning year of instruction and beyond. Students will shine when it is their turn to play the melody, and percussionists will especially enjoy enhancing the music with a variety of cool instruments like the brake drum (or anvil), shaker, and wind chimes.

With a big thank you for letting me into your dragon world, this piece is dedicated to my granddaughter Ava. Can’t wait to read your dragon graphic novel!

I hope your students enjoy playing “Ashstorm and Nettlefire: Dragonesses of the Deep” as much as I enjoyed writing it and learning about the everyday lives of dragons. May all our students happily explore their passions to the fullest.