Purcell – A Choice Collection, Two Anthems (Brass Quintet) – Parts Digital Download

Dowland was the most famous composer of his day - he had an international reputation and was famous for the beauty of his songs. The dance numbers here show a complexity way beyond the normal brass consort music of his time. The gentle Semper Dowland, Semper Dolens is one of the most beautiful pieces of the 16th (or indeed any) Century. Arranged by Stephen Wick and suitable for students and professionals.

The Planets Suite in Miniature is an attempt to take the listener through Gustav Holst's orchestral masterpiece in less than ten minutes using only five brass instruments. Only five of the seven most famous and recognisable melodies from the original are used, beginning, like the prototype, with Mars. The different movements appear in the same order as Holst wrote, although the rhythmic pattern of Mars reappears on occasion. The piece ends with a clash of interest as the two most well known movements, Mars and Jupiter, compete for the right to finish. The harsh sounds of Mars are heard first before the hymnal Jupiter theme is heard over the driving rhythm of Mars. Jupiter finally triumphs with the piece ending with one final verse of the tune used for the hymn I Vow To Thee My Country. This instantly recognisable arrangement by Thomas Chinery is both challenging and playable, and of a length that will not tire the players too much while at the same time maintaining the essence and power of the original music to ensure interest for both audience and players alike. A recording by the Argento Brass Quintet can be heard on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGg1-pcHzrs

This arrangement by Alan Danson conveys the triumph and celebration of the Finale of Beethoven's 5th Symphony. The writing is idiomatic and melodic interest is shared between all parts, with rare moments of a contemporary approach to the work here and there. An ideal opener to the second half of a concert. For schools, studios and professionals.

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.