This compilation by Cicconi, part of the publisher's ‘Music Finders’ series, adapts the formula of David Daniels's Orchestral Music to other repertoires. Composers are listed with their vital dates, locations, and nationalities and a list of works providing title, date, duration, publisher, and detailed instrumentation. An indication of difficulty, often provided by band music publishers, would have been welcome. The criteria for what the author chose to include are not clear. The book purports to ‘catalog the vast new repertoire for wind band that has emerged since the last years of the 20th century’; however, a number of much-earlier composers are included, such as Czech-born American composer Karel Husa, who published band works as early as 1959…. Useful appendixes include listings of works by duration and works that include ‘chorus, solo voice, solo instruments, and obscure instruments.’…

Summing Up: Recommended.... Readers at all levels.

Choice Reviews

The Band Music Handbook provides a user-friendly repertoire for concert band/wind ensemble written in the last quarter century of all levels of difficulty. The system of listing the required instrumentation for each composition, similar to the system historically used for denoting instrumentation in orchestral works, is particularly helpful. Christopher M. Cicconi’s handbook will be a great addition to the libraries of all wind band conductors and for university wind band literature classes; and it will certainly be on my office bookshelf!

Stephen L. Gage, director of bands & orchestra, Youngstown State University Dana School of Music

The Band Music Handbook is a welcome addition to repertoire resources for conductors of wind bands. This easy to use guide allows one to take a thorough look at recent compositions or to simply choose works by composer, duration, featured instruments and soloists, or composer nationality. Like all compendiums of literature, Dr. Cicconi's is, of necessity, selective. However, a wide range of musical styles are represented, amply illustrating the artistic scope and depth found within the wind band's repertoire.

Gary W. Hill, professor of music, and director of bands, Arizona State University

The Band Music Handbook by Christopher Cicconi is an invaluable tool for any conductor. The extensive listings are clear and organized in such a way that one can quickly find the relevant information. The wind equivalent of the Daniels' Orchestral Music—as essential as owning a score and baton!

Thomas Sleeper, Director of Orchestral Activities The Frost School of Music