James Rae is the man who put fun into woodwind and brass teaching. His many compositions, especially in the jazz and blues idioms, have often featured on examination syllabuses. Recent years have seen his publications of easy flexible ensembles for younger players and now he turns his attention to the wind band. In his series The Concert Band Collection, he has written exciting new pieces for the standard concert band line up. Attention is given to each instrument so that the technical and musical requirements do not exceed UK Grade 2. An optional piano part will provide “stuffing” and moral support for the young players who will quickly enjoy James’ catchy and imaginative music. Each volume contains two titles. Buffalo RockThis piece has been specifically composed for bands in their early stages of development. All instrumental parts have been written in comfortable keys and ranges with all clarinet parts staying entirely in the low register. After a short, powerful introduction, the music immediately kicks in to a driving rock mode, setting the scene for the remainder of the piece. Strong rhythmic playing is required from all sections of the band in order to achieve a solid performance. A Royal PortraitThis piece is very regal in style and portrays all the pomp and circumstance that surrounds a high-profile state occasion. It is to be performed with a full, warm sound and players must resist the temptation to overblow as this could have a detrimental effect on tone quality and intonation. As with Buffalo Rock, the instrumental parts have been written in comfortable keys and ranges with all clarinet parts staying entirely in the low register.