Holst - Second Suite in F for Military Band - 2. Song Without Words (arr. for Wind Quintet)

DESCRIPTION
The Second Suite in F for Military Band (Op. 28, No. 2) is the second of Gustav Holst's two suites for concert band. This staple of the band repertoire written in 1911 has been arranged for wind quintet (flute, oboe, Bb clarinet, french horn and bassoon). For you concert band lovers out there, enjoy this miniature version of the Second Suite with your wind quintet!

The Suite was inspired by folk tunes, with musical material that is both fun to play and accessible for audience:

Movement I: "March: Morris dance, Swansea Town, Claudy Banks"
Movement II: "Song Without Words, 'I'll Love My Love'"
Movement III: "Song of the Blacksmith"[6]
Movement IV: "Fantasia on the Dargason"

Movement I is march-like and jovial, making it particularly suitable for the wind quintet. The original Euphonium solo playing the "Swansea Town" is played instead by the french horn in the wind quintet. The french horn is closest to the euphonium in its canticle register and tone quality, making this arrangement a clear and intuitive choice.

Movement II is reflective and melancholic. The oboe plays the original oboe solo carrying the song. Also kept is the beautifully written flowing accompaniment by the clarinet. 

Movement III is confident and jaunty, so play with much fitnesse and style even though there are numerous off-beat accompaniment. The french horn takes centre stage yet again introducing the main melody.

Movement IV is notable for the folk tune Greensleeves interwoven into the movement. The bassoon has a chance to shine this time with it introducing the melody.

COMPOSER
Gustav Holst

ARRANGERS
Lin Y. E.

INSTRUMENTS
Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Woodwind Quintet, Horn in F

FORMAT
Individual Part, Score, Set of Parts

LEVEL
Intermediate