Northshore Concert Band: Story Tellers

Journey through the eyes of a child in this imaginative exploration of wonder, discovery, and the innocence of youth. Percy Grainger’s Children’s March brings youthful exuberance to life through lilting melodies and boundless energy, leading the audience “over the hills and far away.” Joe Hisaishi’s beloved score to the anime film My Neighbor Totoro captures the magic of childhood through vivid musical sketches portraying the cuddly Totoro, the quirky Catbus, and the delightful adventures of sisters Satsuki and Mei. Enter the fairy tale world of Hans Christian Andersen in Martin Ellerby’s Tales from Andersen, where timeless stories are transformed into musical vignettes, including The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Snow Queen, the inspiration behind Disney’s animated film Frozen. The concert concludes with selections from John Williams’ sweeping score to Far and Away, a spirited blend of Irish folk tradition and American Western charm that propels a hopeful journey toward new beginnings.

Program

Adam Schoenberg Rise

Percy Grainger Children's March

Joe Hisaishi (arr. Goto) My Neighbor Totoro

Martin Ellerby Tales from Andersen

John Williams (arr. Lavender) Far and Away

About Northshore Concert Band

Northshore Concert Band (NCB) is a 100-member symphonic band active in the Chicago metropolitan area. Founded in 1956, the 2025/26 Season marks the Band's 70th anniversary. In celebration, the Band will premiere a new work by Henry Dorn and appear at the 79th annual Midwest Clinic in December 2025. Learn more about NCB at northshoreband.org.