Nimrod 'From Enigma Variations' - Elgar - Gavin Somerset

The 'Enigma Variations' by Elgar are musical portraits of his friends and family. The best of these 14 variations is by far, number 9 entitled 'Nimrod'. The variation has become a piece in its own right and is common at funerals and other solemn occasions. Remembrance Day in particular would not be complete without hearing the work and is always performed at the Cenotaph in London on this day. Now, this arrangement by Gavin Somerset remains faithful to the original and with careful scoring throughout, it allows bands of most standards to play this gorgeous piece and still obtain those hair raising moments the audiences have come to expect. A must for every bands library.

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Northwold - The ELB March - William Elsom

Sub-titled "The ELB March" as it was composed for the East London Brass band, this is a nice catchy march, ideal for the opening of a concert or 2nd half opener to a concert.

Nutcracker March - Tchaikovsky - Geoff Colmer

First performed in 1882, the Nutcracker Suite (which included this march) was a huge success and became highly popular. The march features in the ballet when the children march around the tree on Christmas eve, filled with excitement and anticipation of the next morning. Some great lip slurs for the Solo Cornets whilst Basses have moving staccato quavers to keep them occupied.

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O Holy Night - Adolph Adam - Stephen Tighe

Arranged for the full band, this timeless classic has something for every player. The arrangement builds all the time to a gorgeous climax, and has an intricate part for the Vibraphone (although this is covered around the band if unavailable). A simple, yet effective arrangement and a pleasure to listen to.

O Isis Und Osiris - W.A. Mozart - Andi Cook

The Magic Flute (Die Zauberflote) is one of Mozart's most successful operas, premiered only 2 months before the composer's early death. Skilfully arranged now as an Eb Tuba solo (with an Euphonium solo part as an alternative option), this is a chance for your band's tuba player to show the instruments in a new light, not often seen on the concert stage. The Aria O Isis Und Osiris is performed at the start of the second act of the opera and allows the soloist to show off the more lyrical and operatic side of the instrument.

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Ombra Mai Fu - Handel - Jonathan Bates

Whilst many will not know the music by name, upon hearing a few bars, the music is recognisable as one of Handel's most famous works. This however was not always the case. 'Ombra Mai Fu' is the opening Aria from the opera 'Serse' which was a failure upon its release, lasting only five performances following its premiere. Thankfully the work was rediscovered some years later and became one of the most famous classical music pieces we know today. Originally composed to be performed by a castrato singer, Jonathan Bates has now arranged this timeless classic into a beautiful cornet solo that would feature well in both the concert hall and bandstand.

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On Cloud Nine - Rob Wiffin

On Cloud Nine is a wonderful new concert opener; a vivacious four-minute concert item full of energy and good humour. It begins with a majestic fanfare-like statement. This opening melodic idea re-appears in various forms throughout the piece. The following themes are sometimes a little quirky with fantastic band parts for all players to enjoy. The piece is meant to convey a deep sense of joy which bubbles relentlessly to the surface no matter what else threatens to dampen it. The music is overwhelmingly optimistic in spirit and fun to play as well as listen to.

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Once Upon A Christmas Song - Peter Kay & Gary Barlow - Gavin Somerset

They just don't write Christmas songs like they used to! Enter, Geraldine McQueen (AKA Peter Kay) who set to put all that right with her (his!) spoof Christmas song, 'Once Upon A Christmas Song', co-written by Gary Barlow. The proceeds from the single were donated to the NSPCC and at its peak, reached number 5 in the UK charts. The song's memorable video and hook which tells of them singing Christmas songs 'Over & Over & Over again' made the melody an instant hit. Now your band can inject some humour into your festive concerts with this great little number. Is there a hidden Geraldine in your band?!

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Only You - Vincent Clarke - Andrew Keegan

Originally beginning life as a joke item, this track was to feature on Kylie Minogue's 2015 Christmas album. James Corden & Kylie Minogue have been good friends since hosting the BRIT awards in 2009 and upon completing the recording, record producers took a liking to it and elevated the song to single status. The piece makes a great cornet/horn duet and although was initially released for a Christmas album, it is not a Christmas song. Light accompaniments and a simple, beautiful melody ensure this new duet will be a hit with players and audiences alike. *Soprano Cornet solo part included as an extra to perform as a Soprano/Horn Duet.

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Open All Hours - Wellington Guernsey & Joseph Ascher - John Lee

The theme tune from one of Britain's iconic comedy shows is in fact, an old tune entitled 'Alice, Where Art Thou' composed by Joseph Ascher, a Dutch composer and pianist. The opening title sequence of the show heard brass arranger, Max Harris performing his own version of the tune, who also composed the incidental music for the show. This light-hearted release coincides with the release of the new Open All Hours series starring David Jason who now runs the corner shop years later. A great easy going summer concert item and one that audience members will truly enjoy.(also playable by training bands)

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