I have always found Mahler's Symphony No. 3 to be one of the most satisfying works ever composed, and few composers are capable of building a crescendo quite like Mahler. The arrangement utilizes the last few minutes of the symphony, beginning with the shimmering brass chorale, and lasting all the way to those monolithic chords and broad timpani strokes at the end.

I was first exposed to the piece in a high school honors band conducted by Dr. Walter Chesnut - truly an inspiring gentleman, and one with whom I feel so lucky to have made music (if only on a few occasions). In addition to a meeting for an audition at the University of Massachussetts at Amherst, I worked with Maestro Chesnut when he guest conducted PMEA (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association) District, Regional and All-State Band festivals while I was in school. Every one of those festivals was memorable. Somehow, despite the musical limitations challenging any group, he managed to bring out the music. His leadership and his unabashed passion for music continues to be an inspiration for me even today as I do my best to inspire and lead young musicians.

• Finale from Symphony No. 3 is published by Drew Fennell Publishing.
  Available for Brass Band, Large Brass Ensemble and Brass Octet with Percussion and Organ.

• Hear a short sample of the Finale from Symphony No. 3 by Robert Lehman & members of the River City Brass Band, Denis Colwell, Music Director from the compact disc recording Music for Organ and Brass [brass octet with percussion and organ version]*.

• Hear Finale from Symphony No. 3 by the Triangle Youth Brass Band, Tony Granados, Conductor.