St. Francis Variations (Concert Band - Score only) - Wheeler, Alastair

Variations on St Francis is a set of four contrasting movements based on the sturdy 17th century hymn tune Lasst uns erfreuen, best known as St Francis after its composer with associated words "All creatures of our God and King". Although often notated in various metres, the tune's original unbarred freedom and Vaughan Williams' later 3/2 setting both inform this work's flexible approach to rhythm and stress.The piece is built from three ideas: the bold opening line of the tune, descending peals of Alleluia, and the answering response phrase.A grand March opens the work, with open-fifth fanfares and flowing Alleluia countermelodies. The Dance that follows shifts the response into a minor key, driven by syncopation and playful overlapping lines. A lyrical Cantabile / Intermezzo, led by cor anglais (or alto saxophone), offers contrast before a Rondo Scherzo reimagines the tune in a quirky modal style, featuring falling thirds and bright harmonic colour. A confident Coda brings the work to a close with chorale statements launched from the percussion section.Duration: 7.30

  View Music