Band

Duration: 20:00 minutes

As the title suggests, this piece comprises a set of variations on an original chorale, which is presented in the opening bars. The chorale uses the dark middle and lower sections of the band and is extended with minor variations until a pause leads to the first real variation, marked Vivo. This is in the form of a moto perpetuo. The second variation is a beautiful Andante introduced by a solo clarinet. Following a full band climax the final variation opens with quiet, nervous energy until its main theme is introduced. The chorale makes a brief appearance until the main theme reappears. This leads to a triumphant final augmented statement of the chorale theme, decorated by the florid clarinet theme in the upper woodwinds. A dazzling new concert work.

Handel's oratorio Judas Maccabaeus was composed in a period of not much more than a month in 1746. As with thte famous Messiah, use was made of previously composed material and indeed See, the Conquering Hero Comes! was grafted from another oratorio about Joshua. The oratorio tells of the exploits of Judah Maccabee, a hero from Jewish sacred history who was victorious in battles against their pagan enemies. This arrangement of See, the Conquering Hero Comes! will bring a great sense of ceremony to any concert.

This is a great opportunity to incorporate a modern concerto into your band's repertoire, which will provide a fresh and appealing concert item for your upcoming season. The work follows the standard 3-movement concerto form with a syncopated, rag-like opening movement contrasting with a slower, beautifully English-sounding second movement. The third movement is based on a bebop style to show off the jazzier qualities of the clarinet. This substantial work is suitable for a Grade 4 standard band.