La Madre De Los Gatos (concert band) Brian Beck

YOUNG SYMPHONIC

With tempo markings like Allegro con passione and Prestissimo con fuego, this work includes all the passion and fire needed to grab the audience. Its title is from a nickname given to Mrs. Verda Shine (Mama Kitty) by her fellow band directors at Byrd Middle School, Duncanville, Texas. Along with her fondness for cats, Mrs. Shine earned her nickname for her commitment to the support of program staff and students. The piece was written to celebrate her zeal and was premiered at the 2009 Byrd Middle School Spring concert, with Mrs. Shine as featured clarinetist.