Dowland – Dances from Lachrimae (Brass Quintet) – Parts Digital Download

Arranged by Tom Whitehurst, this is a joyful and descriptive solo for Tuba, as it tries to emulate the movement of an elephant. For secondary schools, colleges, professionals, amateurs and community performing groups.

This short piece was composed for the 15th anniversary celebrations of the Mainstreet Brass quintet in the U.S.A. It is an ideal opener for a variety of occasions. The work is tonal with some note clusters, providing a contemporary edge to its character, while its style alludes to the French school of writers. Following an expectant and anticipatory opening it builds to the main Allegro middle section of the piece. The work closes with echoing references, over a dominant pedal, to the main theme.

Arranged by Robin Benton, all brass players and their audiences should enjoy this rousing well known March from Verdi's 1871 grand opera Aida. The Egyptian army has returned from its victory over the Ethiopians and the melodies are suitably triumphant in style. The first melody ends with trumpet fanfares leading to the well known second melody which is repeated in a higher key. The opening theme returns and the March ends with a rousing coda.

This arrangement of familiar nursery rhymes was intended as a means of introducing younger children to the medium of the brass quintet. Each rhyme is dressed in a musical identity, with each player given plenty of note activity. Some rhymes are slightly tongue in cheek while others are blatantly satirical. The work opens and closes with the rhyme Oranges and Lemons and the medley runs logically lasting for 5 to 6 minutes. It is an ideal encore item or light alternative to follow a quintet that might have challenged both performer and listener. A Medley of Rhymes for Five Brass is a popular addition to serious concert programmes.