Description

Sir Sidney Smith’s March is a very lively march which I first came across some years ago. Originally, the Folk Band at school simply played it is unison but I realised that several members were struggling and soon created some simpler parts. That arrangement has here been extended and further embellished such that it now comprises Flute 1, Flute 2 / Descant Recorder, Clarinet in Bb, Violin, Accordion / Piano / Guitar and Cello / Bass. There is room to be flexible with the instrumentation to reflect resources and abilities.

The recorded tempo is, perhaps, a little too fast but, while keeping it at a technically-manageable speed, the character of the piece should not be lost.

It is suitable for more advanced players as far as the main melody line is concerned while the other parts add to the overall colour and rhythmic impetus. It would be eminently suitable for submission for GCSE Ensemble or, given the necessary standard of players, KS4 ensemble work. It is also an exciting concert piece.