2008-9 Sampler  Up a Level         

In British military establishments throughout the world, lowering the Union Flag at the end of the day, when performed with full ceremony, incorporates the evening hymn and last post. It is also the focal point of remembrance at military funerals and, in particular, at Armistice Day parades. This sensitive arrangement incorporates the hymn The Day is Ended and, of course, The Last Post. American Grade 3 Duration: 3:19

Spending much time in Spain, Ron Wiffin has been drawn towards the exciting Spanish dance rhythms. With this work you can almost feel the dancers swirling around you in the brilliant summer sun! Grade 5 Performance time: 4:23. Recorded on QPRM152D MOSAIC, Royal Northern College of Music Wind Orchestra

William Blake's great poem set to music by Hubert Parry is now almost accepted as an alternative national anthem for Great Britain. It is played at civic functions everywhere and also at such diverse events as rugy matches and, most impressively, as the closing item at the Promenade Concert season at the Royal Albert Hall. American Grade 4 Duration: 2:10

Solos feature in most concert programmes and this arrangmenet will be a welcome addition to the library. A touch of calm expressiveness could make it a welcome break from the standard band repertoire.

Bring a Spanish serenade into your programmes. Savour the feel of Spain on a sultry summer evening with the gentle sound of 'strumming guitars'. American Grade 4 Duration 3:00

This haunting melody tells the sad story of two irish lovers. The boy fell in love when he saw her as she 'moved through the fair'. Despite their differing social standing they received parental permission to marry but the girl did not return. In the closing verse of the song he dreams of her moving through the fair but realises that she has in fact died. This is a tune that will live with you for ever. American Grade 3. Duration 3:47

Duncan Stubbs has taken two maids of folk-song fame and dressed them in new harmonically pleasant clothing! Barbara Allen becomes a graceful, if not a little sad, young lady, whilst Li'l Liza Jane is decidedly flirtatious. Togther they for am attractive work suitable for any programme. American Grade 4. Duration: 3:00