Description

The three reels featured here are 3 Scamping Rogues, A Finnish Polka and John Ryan.

Each has a very distinctive character but the three combine to make a really good set of tunes. To round things off, I have always repeated the first tune: also, it makes more sense as this can be used for a four-couple dance this way.

When playing this, watch out, as some sections are marked to be repeated, but this is not consistent throughout the set. Notionally, all tunes are in D major but, in fact, the first section of A Finnish Polka is in a modal B minor.

The size of this arrangement reflects the many stages it has gone through, as beginner players have been incorporated into the folk band and music provided to reflect their abilities and technique. Some of the simpler parts can be omitted if necessary, maintaining those parts designated “1” where there is a range.

Remember that these are dance tunes and simply enjoy playing them!

Instrumentation:

Flute 1, Flute 2, Descant Recorder 1, Descant Recorder 2, Bb Clarinet 1, Bb Clarinet 2, Alto Saxophone, Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Accordion / Piano / Guitar, Bass