An Analysis of Morton Gould's Ballad for Band

Editor

Matt Talbert

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

National Band Association

Abstract

While there is some speculation as to which one of Gould’s works was actually his first original work for wind band, Ballad for Band is arguably the first original work for wind band written by an American composer (excluding marches by Sousa, King Fillmore, et al.). While Gould would utilize existing folk material (i.e., American Salute, Jericho Rhapsody), Ballad for Band developed original material using pentatonic scales while being influenced by African-American spirituals. This brief analysis aims to highlight specific spots of Ballad for Band where Gould crafts original material influenced by the American vernacular, setting the stage for later American composers to follow the model that Gould developed. Unfortunately, many middle school and high school students along with wind conducting students are largely unaware of Gould’s compositions.

First Page

23

Last Page

32

Publication Date

6-2026

Date

July 29, 2026

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