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"Take your ensemble on an unforgettable journey with Quest, an adventurous and cinematic Grade 3 work by M.J. Roth that mirrors the arc of a classic Hero’s Journey. Set in a forested world of mystery and discovery, this piece features unconventional yet flowing phrase structures, lush textures, and expressive scoring that invites both performers and audiences to immerse themselves in the story.
Smooth transitions, dramatic shaping, and a bold, electric finale make Quest a rewarding challenge for developing bands. With its mix of lyricism and rhythmic drive, this work offers rich opportunities for musical storytelling and emotional connection—perfect for concert or festival performance."
"Here ye! Here-ye! The King’s court is in session and coronation day is upon us! Masterfully crafted to teach a variety of articulations, your students will showcase stately staccato, delicate legato, courtly hooked bows and strong accents that express both the triumphant fanfare of the proclamation and the delicate nuances of the celebration." - Randall Standridge Music
"Hailing from the Detroit, MI area, M. J. Roth has created in “Discovery” a young band work that employs a sophisticated sound palette while being very approachable. It takes players on an auditory journey which evokes different phases of discovery, scientific and otherwise. Along the way, different sections of the ensemble exchange and develop ideas, adding their own thoughts, expanding and contracting the theme in this refreshingly original work." - Grand Mesa Music
Of Love and Loss celebrates the lives of those who have parted us too soon with gorgeous melodies and lush harmonies. This work masterfully flows through several keys while featuring solo violin and piano. String ensembles will have a chance to express a range of emotions through advanced musicality and mature phrasing.
SELECTED MANUSCRIPTS
In which I experiment with the mixture of score and sound. Produced in 2022 for composition studio recital.
Performance by the North Farmington H.S. Symphony Band, presented at the 2023 Michigan Music Conference.
Originally "N.F. Overture," this work was submitted at the last minute to Grand Mesa's Young Band Composition contest and necessitated a change in name. Miraculously, it placed top 5 among the Grade 3 submissions.
Composed as an exciting introduction to 7/8 meter for developing concert band, Impact! premiered with the Farmington STEAM Academy 7th/8th grade band in May of 2022.
A work for middle school band, Warner Overture recieved a virtual premiere in May 2021 by United Freedom Band, and a live premiere from Warner Middle School's Symphonic Band in June 2021.