Description

Instrumentation: Flute 1, Flute 2 / Descant Recorder, Clarinet in B flat, Violin, Accordion / Piano / Guitar and Bass.

‘Dorset 4-hand Reel’ is a 4-couple dance which, for the dancers, incorporates a ‘hop-step.’ In this arrangement are two different traditional tunes, usually associated with this dance. To afford additional ‘lift’, the second tune is then repeated a tone higher, in A major (concert pitch), before the original tune is used to complete the set.

Some callers will ask that the final 8 bars – the ‘B’ music – be repeated at a quicker pace: but not too fast!

While the main melody is always in the part designated ‘Accordion’, this is an adaptable arrangement and any instrument with the appropriate range can be used to play any of the lines. It is envisaged that, with this arrangement, as with others for this group of instruments, the piano will provide a rhythmic accompaniment plus, if required, the melody, while the guitar will strum the chords in a regular rhythm.

As always, remember that this is music to be danced to but also to enjoy.

It is eminently suitable for ensemble work both at KS4 and for GCSE Ensemble Performing, giving due regard to issues concerning ‘doubling’.