I am a composer and music educator and this site features various works of mine. Whether you are a music educator, a professional musician or student, please check out my pieces for concert band, jazz ensemble, brass quintet, woodwind ensemble and orchestra. For information on where to purchase a piece, follow the link to the publisher's website or contact me. I hope you enjoy my music. For information on commissioning a work for your band or orchestra or to inquire about composer workshops, please contact me via this web site. Thank you for visiting. See you soon,

I Saw Three ShipsConcert Band - LEVEL: 3 (Medium) J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice 2012   Alfred Music Publishing With skill, artistry, and a touch of sugar frosting, Vince Gassi has crafted another Christmas favorite. This lovely arrangement is based on a 17th century English carol. The melody is presented in a variety of keys and meters while a sense of joy and warmth is maintained throughout this uplifting work.

WingsConcert Band - LEVEL: 2.5 (Medium Easy)NEW for 2012   Alfred Music Publishing The men and women of the Royal Canadian Air Force are the inspiration behind this original composition by Vince Gassi. The first work in his Armed Forces Suite, it takes off with a bright, spirited theme first heard in the flutes. The rest of the ensemble soon joins in the maneuvers and offers a fuller tactical report. Clarinets take over with dignity, providing a lyrical contrast, and are supported by a stately accompaniment. It isn't long before we start to feel the "spirit of adventure" building to a contrasting section conveying images of stealth and intrigue. Covert operations lead finally to a restatement of the opening theme by the brass with flute and clarinet obligato. Interlace with fragments from the covert section and we are carried to a soaring conclusion. If you are looking for a spirited concert opener or closer, look no further!

Climb The Mountains TallConcert Band - LEVEL: 2 (Medium Easy)NEW for 2012   Alfred Music Publishing Inspired by "The Dream," a poem by Darren Clayton, this work reflects the spirit of adventure necessary to journey to new places and new experiences. After a bold introduction, the flutes, oboe, and bells present a heroic melody with supporting roles provided by the baritone and snare drum. The full band then joins in and expands on the theme, energy building all the while. We journey briefly through a minor key and a slower, more contemplative section. With a transition back to the main theme, and a change of key, we boldly approach the exciting conclusion of our travels.

The Holly and the IvyConcert Band - LEVEL: 1.5 (Easy) J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice 2012   Alfred Music Publishing Adorn your holiday concerts with this charming new setting of a familiar English carol. To open, we hear a jubilant proclamation leading to a presentation of the melody in 4/4 by the trumpets, supported with clarinets and light percussion. Soon, the low brass revels in the theme while the woodwinds festoon and decorate. Spirits are lifted with a change of key until we are gradually transported to a gentle variation in 3/4 where all is calm. It isn't long before we hear the exuberant melody again and all is brought to a joyous conclusion. You'll be programming this one for years to come.

A Canadian ChristmasConcert Band - LEVEL: 2 (Easy)NEW for 2012   Alfred Music Publishing Get ready for an abundance of merriment! This work features carols that have been traditionally sung in Canada for many years and will help to create a spirit of mirth in no time. It opens with the joyous strains of "Il Est Né Le Divin Enfant" (He is Born, The Divine Child) and continues with the plaintive and modal "Noël Nouvelet (Sing We Now of Christmas)." "The Huron Carol" ('Twas In the Moon of Wintertime) is then presented with remnants of "Noël Nouvelet" cleverly woven in. The dramatic conclusion develops brief dialogue between "Good King Wenceslas" and "Il Est Né Le Divin Enfant" that brings the work to an exuberant and powerful close. Juxtaposing the lyrical and expressive with the joyous and cheerful in this masterful arrangement will add a little touch of Canada to your next holiday concert.

Vision QuestConcert Band - LEVEL: 4 (Difficult)NEW for 2012   Alfred Music Publishing A vision quest is defined as a journey taken alone in the wilderness to find one’s spiritual and life direction. Take your audiences on a mystic journey with this exciting new work by Vince Gassi. Bold themes and angular rhythms are contrasted with a poignant lyrical section. Frequent meter changes and interesting harmonies will provide ample opportunity for your young musicians to grow musically.

Sombrero SamJazz Ensemble - LEVEL: 1 (Easy) J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice 2012 Alfred Publications This catchy samba features a 16-bar written-out tenor sax solo, trumpet 1 range to written F top line, and only two chords for the rhythm section. Easy to play, very effective, and everyone will dig it.

Zero GravityJazz Ensemble - LEVEL: 1 (Easy) J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice 2012 Alfred Publications This lyrical melody was scored with an easy rock groove for full ensemble. Features include a stop-time interlude, lead trumpet range to written F top line, clear and accurate rhythm section parts, and quality educational material for all winds throughout.

The Holly and the IvyString Orchestra - LEVEL: 3 J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice 2012   Highland-Etling Take one traditional English carol, change the meter, insert a slow middle section, add a dash of counterpoint, and sprinkle liberally with sparkly Christmas dust. Mix with orchestra and audience members and you have the perfect recipe for your next holiday concert. Good cheer is guaranteed to follow.

CrusadeString Orchestra - LEVEL: 2.5 J.W. Pepper Editors' Choice 2012   Belwin String Catalogue This exciting original work opens with an ominous theme. It continues to build throughout, culminating in a powerful, climactic ending. Set in Dorian Mode, this piece overflows with vibrant and dramatic energy, conjuring images of strength, majesty, and passion.