Concert Band

Song and Dance

arr. Geoffrey Brand

Grade 5 | 5 Mins

Philip Sparke wrote this single movement piece for a recording by the (then) GUS Band in 1984. It was first performed by the band’s principal cornet, Brian Grant.

The Song commences with a ‘Scotch snap’ rhythm leading to a lyrical cadenza and ending with a return of the opening theme, muted.

The Dance is lively and full of cross rhythms, but tonal and tuneful. Although the work requires a certain virtuosity, it in not virtuosic for its own sake, but rather serves a consistent and well-constructed musical end.