Ralph Vaughan Williams

Vaughan Williams’ work represents the height of English Post-Romanticism after the turn of the century, which was characterized by fervent nationalistic spirit and a corresponding surge of interest in discovering, preserving, and performing traditional folk music. This arrangement includes elements of “Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis,” A Sea Symphony, “Linden Lea,” and “Overture to The Wasps,” all seamlessly intertwined.

The first published composition of Vaughan Williams in 1902 was a setting for voice and piano of a poem by William Barnes. The lyrical folk song quality of the tune makes it an irresistible choice for this arrangement for the beginning concert band idiom. Set in three-four time, the lush arrangement reinforces musicality and the triple meter concept. This setting will certainly make your beginners sound lush and polished. Stunning! (2:15)