Staff Pick
“An attractive wind quintet.”
This attractive wind quintet won its category in the Newly Published Music competition at the 2019 NFA and it's easy to see why. Unusually it tells a story: one of a country parson visiting a local fair where he encounters all manner of events. The 'Galloper' roundabout is followed by a Hurdy Gurdy, the music of both capturing their characters imaginatively. The Dance has a happy tune over a rhythmic accompaniment and, after a sombre begining, the Finale develops into an ebulliant dance before coming to a majestic close. This is a very well crafted piece of music which skillfully uses the colours of the instruments to enhance the narrative. It would make a great recital piece as well as being very useful in concerts for children.
From the Publisher
I – The Galloper
A country parson visits the local fair and is drawn initially to the sounds of laughter and merriment from those riding ‘The Galloper’ (a gaudily painted roundabout driven on by the insistent rhythm of it’s mechanical organ). As the ride slows to a halt he is tempted to mount one of the mechanical horses, but his hesitation is too long….all seats taken the music begins again and he is left to look on.
II – Minstrel’s Song
Moving further into the crowd the parson comes across a Hurdy Gurdy man singing a simple sing of love and anguish. Each verse unfolds a further chapter in the tale of teenage lovers who stay true to each other through the trials of life until they grow old and contented together.
III – Dance
The local band strikes up a gay tune. Fuelled by the free flowing cider, a wild dance ensues, skirts flying, kisses and laughter! In an effort to halt this merriment the Salvation Army band play a sombre hymn tune. The two groups compete; the revellers finally winning the day.
IV – Finale
In dismay, the parson follows the hymn players as they move away. Small groups of musicians vie for attention. A gipsy fiddle band take up the theme of the hymn, twisting it into a Hungarian Dance. Again he moves on until he is mesmerised by a young girl singing a folk song whilst accompanying herself on on the guitar. As she finishes, the gipsy band begin a fast and furious number. The crowd are drawn to their amazing, virtuosic playing. The final few bars tumble wildly (to the parson’s delight) into the hymn tune once again. The crowd sing heartily. He is content.
Performance duration (approx): 18''
Contents
- The Galloper
- Minstrel's Song
- Dance
- Finale
Item Details
Instrumentation
- Part 1: Flute
- Part 2: Oboe
- Part 3: Bb Clarinet
- Part 4: French Horn
- Part 5: Bassoon
Publisher: Forton Music
Publisher's reference: FM756
Our Stock Code: 1436204
Media Type: Paperback - Score and parts (15 pages [score])
