Robert Thurston's enormously attractive writing for band and his sure command of contemporary harmonic and rhythmic devices give this three movement composition by terrific band and audience appeal. Thurston's fondness for mixed meters will keep players on their toes. The 2nd movement (moderato) in particular has a memorable folk-like lilt and charm. The whole piece is bound together by the use of the motto C-E-C, the initials of the composer's teacher, the late great band writer Charles E. Carter, in whose memory Festive Dances was written. Duration: 7'