Description

Piper’s March, or Brian Boru’s March, is a traditional Irish tune, based, as are so many Celtic tunes, round two adjacent chords, in this case A minor and G.

The tune falls into two distinct sections with the second, or ‘B’ section starting on the chord of C major, the relative major, which provides a real contrast.

In this arrangement, for the usual, variable ensemble of Flute 1, Flute 2 or Descant Recorder, Clarinet, Violin, Accordion (and / or Piano / Guitar) and Bass, the first section, or ‘A’ music, is played in unison with just a simple bass (which could be omitted) and no chords. From there, the arrangement gradually builds up before closing with the first phrase passed between the instruments in an antiphonal manner, before fading away and slowing down.

It is a relatively simple tune but very, very memorable and, of course, should be played at a marching speed.

This arrangement is suitable as a short concert item or for an ensemble piece, whether at KS3 or KS4 / GCSE.