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[Brass/Wind Band] Recommended for Beginners! A Collection of Classics and Popular Pieces Perfect for Practice
Many people have probably developed a longing for wind ensemble music through visual works like the popular anime Sound! Euphonium.
Some may have discovered the appeal of wind ensembles as adults, bought an instrument and started taking lessons, or formed a brass band with friends to enjoy on weekends.
In this article, we’ve gathered classic pieces considered “beginner-friendly” among the popular works performed by wind ensembles.
It should be helpful for those with no prior experience playing an instrument, and for those who were in a wind ensemble during their school days, it may feel nostalgic.
Enjoy this selection of charming wind ensemble works that feel familiar and inviting!
[Wind Ensemble] Recommended for Beginners! A Collection of Classics and Popular Pieces Perfect for Practice (1–10)
Omens of LoveT-SQUARE
T-SQUARE is one of Japan’s leading instrumental bands.
While they’re known for a jazz fusion-centered sound, they also release orthodox pop rock.
Omens of Love is a classic that showcases T-SQUARE’s pop-rock side.
Its melody is highly catchy, and it was used as the theme song for the TV drama After School.
It may be orthodox, but that’s precisely why it’s packed with fundamentals—making it a must-check piece for those just starting to listen to wind ensemble music.
ArsenalJan Van der Roost
Arsenal is a piece composed by Jan Van der Roost, a Belgian composer active worldwide.
If you were in a wind ensemble, you probably know it—it’s cherished as a standard number in the wind band repertoire.
While it isn’t particularly eccentric in its melody, it’s crafted to evoke the dignified character of an English march.
It’s a classic among classics, so beginners should definitely check it out.
Galaxy Express 999Godaigo
A rock tune brimming with sci‑fi flair, created as the theme song for the film Galaxy Express 999.
Reportedly written by Yukihide Takekawa in just one night after receiving the English lyrics, the song became a major hit upon its July 1979 release, spending seven consecutive weeks at No.
1 on TBS’s music program The Best Ten.
While rooted in rock, its innovative sound breathed new life into anime songs and significantly impacted the music scene of the time.
The up-tempo rhythm—evoking a steam locomotive powerfully charging ahead—and its bold message about having the courage to move toward the future deliver maximum impact even in wind ensemble performances.
It’s a song that will give you a strong push as you strive toward your dreams.
Overture from Dragon Quest I for Wind BandSakkyoku: Sugiyama Kouichi / Henkyoku: Majima Toshio
An opening piece that begins with a heroic fanfare, inviting listeners into a world of grand adventure.
Koichi Sugiyama’s brilliant melodies blend seamlessly with Toshio Mashima’s wind band arrangement, with brass and percussion sonorities further enhancing the work’s appeal.
Since its debut in 1986 as the iconic theme of a popular game series, it has been performed widely by school bands and professional ensembles alike, becoming a staple of the wind band repertoire.
This work is a perfect fit for those who excel at powerful performances, offering a captivating piece that showcases the full exhilaration of wind band music.
El CumbancheroRafael Fernandes
El Cumbanchero, a masterpiece composed by Puerto Rican composer Rafael Hernández, is a Latin music work released in 1943 and is now cherished as a standard number of Latin music in wind bands.
The piece showcases Latin percussion such as congas and bongos alongside drum set, and is brimming with power throughout.
Because the drum set in wind band has a different feel from that in pop music, be sure to listen with a focus on the percussion.
Moonlight SerenadeGlenn Miller
A masterpiece whose graceful clarinet-and-saxophone harmony resonates deep in the heart.
Set to a slow swing jazz groove, it paints a scene of offering love to a sweetheart under the moonlight.
Showcasing Glenn Miller’s signature, distinctive arranging, the piece became an instant hit upon its release in April 1939.
It later served as the jingle for Subaru’s Legacy in 1996 and Mitsubishi’s Delica D:5 in 2007, and memorably colored a scene in the 2004 film Swing Girls.
Highly recommended for music enthusiasts studying wind ensembles and big band sounds.
CenturiaJames Swearingen
For wind band enthusiasts, the great and familiar composer James Swearingen needs no introduction.
He’s especially popular in Japan; if you’ve been in a Japanese school band, you’ve probably played or at least heard one of his pieces.
Among his works, the one I particularly recommend is “Centuria.” It’s highly narrative, and every section of the piece has a distinctive melody.
If you like the opening theme of the game Monster Hunter, this piece will feel especially approachable.