With tempo markings like Allegro con passione and Prestissimo con fuego, this work includes all the passion and fire needed to grab the audience at your next concert. La Madre de los Gatos derives its title from a nickname given to Mrs. Verda Shine (Mama Kitty) by her colleagues and fellow band directors at Byrd Middle School, Duncanville, Texas. Along with her fondness for cats, Mrs. Shine earned her nickname for her commitment to the nurturing and support of program staff and students. The piece was written to celebrate her zeal and dedicated service as a Duncanville band director and was premiered at the 2009 Byrd Middle School Spring concert, with Mrs. Shine as featured clarinetist.
List/syllabus: Bandworld Top 100 2011-12; Ohio MEA 2011; TX UIL PML: Band, Winds, Perc.
About 2011 Midwest Clinic Performance Pieces
This title was performed at the 2011 Midwest Clinic, the largest band and choral educational conference in the United States. Over thirty performances are given each year by diverse ensembles of varying levels - elementary school, high school, college, military and more. Each performance title is carefully selected and represents the very best in educational sheet music. The Midwest Clinic aims to raise the standards of music education while supporting teachers and music educators.
