THE PINEAPPLE POLL

by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by Charles Mackerras

 

The musical genius of Arthur Sullivan is renowned particularly in the musical theatre. This suite of four movements is entirely based on his music and arranged by Charles Mackerras. Pineapple Poll is a musical spoof of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas and each measure of the band work is drawn from a variety of operas.

CONCERTO FOR BASSOON AND WIND ORCHESTRA

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by Frigyes Hidas

 

A composer who has become particularly well known for his Wind orchestra creations, he has received commissions from many Ballet companies, the State Opera House, Radio Stations, universities and various musical societies. 

 

For more information, read our soloist’s blog on playing the concerto with BPSW.

GAELFORCE

by Peter Graham

 

An exciting collection of Irish folk music , including The Slip Jig, The Rocky Road to Dublin, The Minstrel Boy and Tossing the Feathers. The varying colours and shades portrayed through these traditional tunes give opportunities to hear different sections and instruments within the ensemble. 

THE YEAR OF THE DRAGON

by Phillip Sparke

 

Originally commissioned for the Cory Band (Brass Ensemble) by the Welsh Arts Council, the wind band arrangement was commissioned by Keith Allen; the conductor of the Birmingham School’s Wind Orchestra who gave the first performance of the arrangement in 1986.

THE ADVENTURES OF MUTT

by John Williams 

 

John Williams first premiered this piece in 2008 as part of the 210thAnniversary for the US Marine Band. The piece was created to add to the storyline in the popular film, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. You hear all of the tell tale signs that this is a Williams piece; excitement, story telling and strong themes which relate to each of the characters the music is set to represent.  

EQUUS

by Eric Whitaker 

 

Commissioned in 1996 by the composer’s colleague and friend, Gary Green, this piece took many years for the composer to create a special piece with a particular spark. Using the latin word for ‘horse’ as the title, the piece finally premiered in 2000. A piece written specifically for wind orchestra’s, the composer uses repeating patterns to create a ‘dynamic minimalism’ in this piece that ‘starts running and never stops’ that allows for virtuoso performances within the ensemble.