Quintets
To download the sheetmusic in PDF format, click on the PDF icon. To listen to a midi file of the piece, click on the little guy playing the tuba.
Unless otherwise indicated, each piece is scored for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass.We appreciate your comments on the compositions and arrangements.
Aboard Ship by Sergei Taneyev
This transcription is from the choral work of Opus 27 No.5. If you can find a translation
of the words, you will know what is happening but it seems like a rough voyage where
danger eventually is overcome and a safe harbour is found. Set for two cornets, tenor horn,
baritone and bass trombone with a TC part for Part 5 that could be played on a euphonium.
This is quite difficult, requiring great understanding between five strong players. Excellent contest piece.
A full band version is available on this site from December 2019.
Duration: about 4 minutes.
Adagio from Chorale No.3 by Cesar Franck, arranged by James Moule
This is extracted from the full band piece. This central section has a particularly beautiful
slow melody and is an excellent show-off piece for cornet or flugel. The soloist
is accompanied by tenor horn, baritone / trom / eupho and Eb bass.
Duration: about 2'30".
Air and Variations by Ludwig van Beethoven, arranged by James Moule
Based on the second movement of the Op.109 piano sonata, this is a great contest piece, demonstrating many aspects of performance.
Quite challenging for all players, though comfortably pitched. Arranged for standard quintet with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone CP.
.
Duration: 4'45".
Allegro Appassionato by Camille Saint-Saens, arranged by James Moule
This quintet for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone horn and Eb bass as based on the virtuosic solo for 'cello.
There is a solo for baritone / euphonium on this site which is very difficult.
This arrangement is still
challenging, especially for the baritone / euphonium and the Eb horn. It is a dramatic piece, suitable for concerts and contests.
Duration: 3'45".
Andante Book 2 No.1 by SS Wesley, arranged by James Moule
Set for two cornets, Eb horn, euphonium and 4-valve Eb Tuba, this organ piece by the famous hymn composer shows similarities with the music of his friend Mendelssohn.
CP parts are supplied for the two lower parts, as well as Part 3 French Horn. Everyone gets plenty to do, making this an excellent junior contest piece.
Duration: 3'50".
"As It Was in the Beginning" by G.F. Handel, arranged by James Moule (after W.T. Best)
The first of the Chandos Anthems of 1713 was written to celebrate the Treaty of Utrecht which ended the Spanish War of Succession.
This is the last movement and is, as one would expect, in typical "Hallelujah!" style.
Based on W.T.Best's transcription for organ, this arrangement is for two cornets, horn, euphonium and tuba. Part 3 has parts for both Eb and F horn. TC and BC versions are included for Parts 4 & 5.
Parts cover a wide but comfortable range and are not very difficult. Excellent contest piece and great for finishing a concert.
Duration: 4 minutes
Australian Christmas Carol: "Lo, on a clear and starry night" by James Moule
16th century hymn style with uneven meter and words in blank verse.
Also available in full band version, this contains score and parts plus melody
with words plus words plus piano accompaniment plus SATB score.
Stephen King from USA has kindly French Horn and concert pitch parts and these were added in 2020.
Easy. Duration: 1'50"
Il Bacio by Luigi Artiti, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, baritone (euphonium) and Eb bass.
This famous coloratura aria is available as a baritone solo on this site but it is very difficult.
The difficulties in this quintet version are shared between Baritone, Tenor Horn and 1st Cornet but it is still
quite difficult.
Duration: 3'20".
Le Bal (Galop) from "Children's Games" by Georges Bizet, arranged by James Moule
Scored for soprano (Eb) cornet, Bb cornet, Eb horn, baritone (euphonium) and Eb bass.
Wonderful encore piece, giving all players a chance to show what they can do (or not).
Requires five very strong players, the soprano especially getting some very high notes.
Quite difficult; good for learning to play off-beats.
Duration: 2 minutes.
Ballade from Op.118 by Johannes Brahms, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, baritone (euphonium) and 4-valve Eb bass.
Excellent concert or contest piece but quite difficult due to interval jumps.
Significant range required for all instruments .
Duration: 3'15".
Ballet from "Petite Suite" by Claude Debussy, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, baritone (euphonium) and Eb bass.
Excellent concert or contest piece, giving all players a solo. Lively and entertaining.
Comfortably pitched for all instruments.
Duration: 3'25".
LE BOURGEOIS GENTILHOMME by J.-B. Lully, arr. James Moule
From the incidental music to the play by Moliere. Both the Suite and the Overture
were revised so that all keys are related (CP Eb major / C minor). It is now possible to play both as a set.
Overture to Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme
Moderate difficulty. Good counting required in contrapunctal section. Duration of Overture only: 2'30".
Suite: Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme
Set of dance movements.
Not difficult. Works well when played by a larger group doubling parts.
This arrangement was used by the St.George Brass team in 2014 in winning the Open Ensemble
event at the NSW State Solo and Party Championships.
A new version, compatible with the
previous version, was completed in 2019 in a better scoring program. It was used by a
St.George Brass team to win Under 15 Ensembles at the NSW State Solo and Party Championships in 2019.
It was also used by a team of under-15 years members to win the Brass Ensemble prize in the Musica Viva "Strike a Chord" chamber music competition in 2020.
The same group later won Under 19 Ensemble playing this piece at the 2020 NSW State Party Championships.
Clicking on the staff lines below will give you the FULL suite.
Duration of dance movements only: 4'50". Total duration: about 8 minutes.
Borodin Originals - elements of String Quartet No.2 by Alexander Borodin, arr. James Moule
Transcribed for five instruments from this most luscious of string quartets,
only the bass part is easy. Excellent tone control in the high register for other players
is the challenge. Less talented groups could start from Letter C. The section from
Letter F stands alone. Two very familiar tunes, ideal for soiree jobs.
Duration: 4'50".
Bourree II from English Suite No.2 by J.S. Bach, arr. James Moule
Scored for 2 cornets, baritone, euphonium and drums, with alternative Pt 2 for
Eb horn and Pt 4 for Eb bass. Easy except for the 1st cornet which requires an
intermediate level player. Can be played without drums as a quartet.
Duration: 1'15"
BRANDENBURG CONCERTO No.6 by J.S. Bach, arr. James Moule
This was originally a sextet for two violas, two viola da gamba, 'cello and violone.
As most of these instruments are now obsolete, it is logical to set them for the most
appropriate modern instruments, brass ones of course.
Set for two Eb (tenor / alto) horns, two euphoniums (baritones) and Eb bass, this is a championship standard piece
due to the extreme (though not impossible) range and complex interweaving of parts.
1st Movement
Easiest but longest of the movements. Duration: 7'15".
2nd Movement
Shortest movement with not much work for lower parts. Best combined with 3rd Movement.
Duration: 3'55".
3rd Movement
Most difficult but also most interesting movement. This da capo gigue bounces along,
parts interlocking, a joyous ending to a dazzling masterwork.
Duration: 5'30".
By the Rhine with a Stein by Harry von Tilzer, arr. James Moule
"You vont maybe some oompah band music?" You can't get more oompah than this!
Recorded on wax cylinder, you can hear the original if you search the net. Very easy.
Duration: 2'25".
Can-Can from "Orpheus in the Underworld" by Jacques Offenbach, arr. James Moule
Riotous gallop. Good novelty piece. Comfortably pitched. Fairly easy. Good for teaching off beats.
Duration: 90 seconds.
Capriol Suite by "Peter Warlock" (Philip Heseltine), arranged by Peter Parker
The arranger has kindly allowed this arrangement of the suite for string orchestra to feature on our site.
Six movements in Renaissance style. All but the first one fit well for brass but the range of the Basse-Dance is difficult to accommodate.
The longest movement, the beautiful Pieds-en-l'aire, is less than 2 minutes long.
Extracts can be combined to make sub-suites that are suitable for contests.
Duration: 9"20'.
Chorale and Sicilienne by Felix Mendelssohn, arr. James Moule
This beautiful piece consists of two movements from Mendelssohn's Organ Sonata No.6.
It is pitched comfortably
and is an excellent training piece for juniors as it tests tone quality over a wide range,
especially those growly low notes on cornet.
Suitable for junior contests.
Duration: 3 minutes.
Chorus of Street Boys from "Carmen" by Georges Bizet, arr. James Moule
Fanfare followed by a short march, this version as arranged for the standard quintet
of 2 cornets, horn, baritone and Eb bass.
This arrangement sits in a comfortable range for
all players. 2nd Cornet has the most difficult part but no parts are difficult.
Duration: 1'30".
"Come, Bounteous May"by Reginald Spofforth, arr. James Moule
Uplifting glee in the style of Haydn, featuring sudden dynamic changes and silences.
Set for soprano cornet, two Bb cornets, baritone / trombone and Eb bass / bass trombone.
Challenging because of high range.
Duration: 2' 35".
"Covid-19 Blues, The"by James Moule
This piece was written to commemorate the suspension of rehearsals and performances
for St.George Brass Band in March 2020. Very standard blues / R&R piece, not claiming a great deal of originality.
Scored for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass,
this is suitable for intermediate players. Comfortably pitched and not offering many technical challenges.
French Horn and BC parts available on request.
Used by a St.George Brass team in 2022 to win the Under 15 Small Ensembles section at the NSW State Solo and Party Championships.
Duration: 3 minutes.
"Crudelissima Donna!"by William Smith Rockstro
Scored for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass, the piece is in an archaic style,
considering it was written in the 19th Century.
There are changes of style and pace, making it a good contest piece.
Suitable for intermediate players. Comfortably pitched and not offering many technical challenges.
French Horn and BC parts available on request.
Duration: 3 minutes.
Dawn of Song by Sir Edward Bairstow, arranged by James Moule
This beautiful choral piece consists of three contrasting sections. Players need to demonstrate
sensitivity, especially in the very quiet parts.
Not difficult, except that the fugue will require
accurate counting and all parts have an extensive range. Set for two cornets, Eb horn, baritone and Eb
tuba with a rather high Baritone Part 3 thrown in for those without a tenor horn.
French Horn and BC parts available on request.
Used by a St.George Brass team to win Junior Quintet at the 2023 Australian National Championships.
Used by a St.George Brass team to win a $200 Brass Prize in the 2024 Music Viva "Strike a Chord" chamber music competition.
Duration: 5'15"
Dead Cat Bounce by James Moule
Ed Siebert made Boston bounce forty years ago. In the troubled economic climate
of 2008, we believed that even a dead cat could bounce. Suitable for junior groups.
Can you pick the feline nursery song on which the baritone melody is based?
Note that there is a full band (small band) version of this piece on this site
but the parts are NOT compatible with this quintet version.
This version was used by a team from St.George Brass to win the Under 11 Ensemble event at the
Sydney Metropolitan Solo and Ensemble Competition in 2021.
Flexible parts added 2020.
Duration: 1'25".
The Earth Has Grown Old by Sir Edward Bairstow, arranged by James Moule
This beautiful Christmas piece is quite short and suitable for junior players.
Set for two cornets, baritone, euphonium and Eb tuba.
Not difficult, BC parts provided for lower parts.
Duration: 2'15"
En Passant de la Marjolaine by James Moule
Based on two French children's songs (En Passant par La Loraine and Compagnons
de la Marjolaine). Not difficult except for a couple of high notes for the 1st cornet.
Duration: 2'30".
Entry of the Guests from "Tannhauser" by Richard Wagner, arr. James Moule
Scored for two trombones, two euphoniums and Eb bass. Very difficult but highly satisfying
concert or contest piece.
Duration: 6 minutes.
Entry of the Gypsies from "The Two Pigeons" by Andre Messager, arr. James Moule
Scored for standard brass quintet with extra Part 3 for french horn and baritone and concert pitch parts for 4 & 5.
All parts are fairly challenging. This is a good concert or contest piece.
Duration: 3'30".
Executioner's Entrance from "The Mikado" by Arthur Sullivan, transcribed by James Moule
Recitative and fanfare / march with lyrical central section.
Written for a talented junior group for performance at National Championships,
this arrangement requires strong cornets, capable of hitting high notes. A flugel
part is provided as an alternative to tenor horn for Part 3.
Duration 3'45".
Festal March by John B. Calkin, arranged by James Moule
This organ piece transcribes well for brass. Set here for a standard quintet with French Horn and BC parts supplied extra.
There is a version for full band on this site which is compatible with this quintet version. Not difficult.
Excellent for concerts and contests.
Duration: 5'15".
Fuga from Suite No.6 by G.F. Handel, arranged by James Moule
This fugue comes from the sixth keyboard suite. The simple subject is outshone by the staccato counter-subject and downward sequence of minims.
Set for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, euphonium (baritone / trombone) and Eb tuba with extra parts for Part 3 (french horn, baritone) and concert pitch lower parts, this transcription is comfortably pitched and makes an
excellent contest / concert piece.
Duration: 3 minutes.
Fugue in Five Voices by JS Bach
This monumental fugue from Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier, completed in 1722, reminds us that "clavier"
meant keyboard, not just harpsichord or clavichord. The long sustained notes suggest that the organ
was in Johann Sebastian's mind in this case.
Set for soprano cornet, Bb cornet, Eb horn, euphonium
(baritone / trombone) and Eb bass (tuba), this transcription is comfortably pitched and makes an
excellent contest / concert piece. Starting with long notes, it picks up pace as its three subjects
intertwine, rising to a climax of great passion. Suitable for mature intermediate players.
Used by the St.George team to win Under 15 Ensemble at the 2020 NSW State Party Championships.
Duration: 4'10".
Gaudeamus Igitur Anon., arranged James Moule
Written for junior contests, this air-and-variation piece is comfortably pitched for juniors.
Contrasting sections allow players to demonstrate various styles. Suitable for strong intermediate players.
Duration: 3 minutes.
Gloucestershire Wassail Traditional, arranged James Moule
Wassails are drinking songs, traditionally sung at Christmas. This arrangement for two cornets,
tenor horn, baritone and Eb tuba is comfortably pitched and not difficult for intermediate players.
Duration: 1'50".
Handel in the Strand by Percy Grainger, set for brass by James Moule
Grainger produced several versions of this "clog dance". This arrangement is taken from the solo piano version.
In addition to the standard two cornets, Eb horn, baritone and Eb tuba,
a french horn part and concert pitch version of Baritone are provided.
All players needs to have an extensive range but parts
are mostly comfortably pitched. Suitable for strong contest groups and concerts.
Duration: 3'10"
Harvest Hymn arranged by Percy Grainger, set for brass by James Moule
Good tuning and intonation is essential in this luscious piece.
In addition to the standard two cornets, Eb horn, baritone and Eb tuba,
a french horn part and concert pitch versions of Baritone and Tuba are provided.
1st Cornet needs to have an extensive range but other parts
are comfortably pitched. Suitable for junior contest groups and concerts.
Duration: 2'20"
Havanaise by Camille Saint-Saens, arr. James Moule
This major concert item is derived from a virtuoso violin showpiece by that under-rated
genius, Saint-Saens. Warm, sentimental serenade sections are separated by dramatic
interludes. This arrangement requires very proficient, mature players. ADULTS ONLY!
The ability to play sensitively in the high range is essential.
Duration: 9'50"
Here's to Good Ol' Whisky Arr. James Moule
Arranged for an Oktoberfest dinner for which an Oompah Band was required.
This is quite easy and a lot of fun. Original composer unknown but it was a
common song during the Great War.
Duration: 2'10"
Hungarian Dance from the ballet "The Two Pigeons" by Andre Messager, arranged by James Moule
Jaunty dance movement that could be paired with the "Entry of the Gypsies" on this site.
The score is for the standard quintet but the best team would be two cornets, two baritones and Bb bass.
Extra parts are provided for French Horn and Parts 4 & 5 in concert pitch.
All parts have plenty to do. Good for contests and concerts involving strong intermediate players.
Duration: 3'40".
Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 by Franz Liszt, arranged by James Moule
This arrangement strips most of the extraneous decorations from the virtuoso piano piece.
The score is for the standard quintet of two cornets, horn, baritone and Eb tuba.
Extra parts are provided for French Horn and Parts 4 & 5 in concert pitch.
All parts have plenty to do. The full range of the instruments is explored.
Good for contests and concerts involving strong intermediate players who can play with spirit.
Duration: 6'25".
"Hippolyte et Aricie" Suite by Jean-Philippe Rameau, arranged by James Moule
Written when he was already in middle age, this was Rameau's first opera. It raised controversy for its brilliant music and now confirms Rameau as the greatest French baroque composer.
This suite comes from the hunting scene, Act IV Scene 3. Watch YouTube videos to understand the story.
The score is for the standard quintet of two cornets, horn, baritone and Eb tuba.
Extra parts are provided for French Horn and Parts 4 & 5 in concert pitch.
All parts have plenty to do. The full range of the instruments is explored.
There are five short movements of alternating character.
Good for contests and concerts involving strong intermediate players who can play with spirit.
Note that there is a version for full band on this site.
Duration: About 9 minutes. For a shorter time limit in contests, play Nos. 3, 4 & 5.
In Cellar Cool (a.k.a. "Drinking") by Ludwig Fischer, arranged by James Moule (2008)
Famous basso profundo drinking song, scored here for four-valve Eb bass and four-valve euphonium.
Involves a pedal note but all parts are easy. Lots of fun can be had visually if players
sink to their knees as tuba descends to pedal C. Good for Octoberfest oompah bands.
Duration: 1"50'.
In Cellar Cool (a.k.a. "Drinking") by Ludwig Fischer, arranged by James Moule (2021)
Famous basso profundo drinking song, scored here for two cornets, tenor horn, euphonium and Bb tuba.
Extra parts are supplied for Part 3 Baritone (TC and BC), Part 3 French Horn Parts 4 & 5 in BC.
Lots of fun can be had visually if players
sink to their knees as tuba descends to final note. Good for Octoberfest oompah bands and junior contests.
Used by St.George Brass to win Under 11 Ensemble event at the 2022 Metropolitan Solo and Ensemble Competition.
Duration: 1'50"
LES INDES GALANTES (Suite) by Jean Philippe Rameau, arranged by James Moule
Scored here for two cornets, euphonium, baritone and four-valve Eb bass, this harpsichord suite was arranged for a
talented group of junior players, all State Champions, to play in an on-line competition, organised by Musica Viva, in which they won the State prize.
There are five movements, each playable as a separate (short) item.
Used by a St.George Brass team in 2022 to win the Under 19 Small Ensembles section at the NSW State Solo and Party Championships.
Total duration: about 8 minutes, allowing 5 seconds between movements.
FULL SCORE
1. Les Sauvages
Savages giving a war dance. Comfortably pitched, except for the tuba's last note.
Duration: 2 minutes
2. Air Polonois
A rather sad movement for the Polynesians, requiring delicate playing.
Duration: 1'45"
3. Air pour les Esclaves affricains
African slaves get a noble dance with 1st Cornet doing most of the work.
Duration: 1'40"
4. Musette en Rondeau
Graceful pastorale providing few difficulties. The MIDI file does not demonstrate the "swing" quavers.
Duration: 1'10"
5. Tambourin
A rousing drum-like finish, requiring 1st Cornet to reach some high notes. Check that the tubaist doesn't fall asleep.
Duration: 1 minute
Iolanthe by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
Samples from six of the songs but not including "March of the Peers" which is available here separately.
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and 4-valve Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
The pieces are mostly choruses, providing much satisfaction for not much difficulty. Excellent for concerts and junior contests.
Duration: 4 minutes
Kaiser Waltz by Johann Strauss II, arranged by James Moule
This is one of Strauss' most famous waltz settings, often known as "The Emperor Waltz".
Set for two Bb cornets, tenor horn, euphonium and 4-valve Eb bass, with extra parts. The original is over 11 mintes long but, by cutting repeats, all the waltzes are still featured.
Suitable for intermediate players, though the 1st Cornet part has some high notes.
Excellent for concerts and contests.
Duration: 5'40"
Landler by Franz Schubert, arranged by James Moule
Set for two Bb cornets, tenor horn, euphonium and 4-valve Eb bass, this is a cut-and-paste
of two Schubert Landlers. Suitable for intermediate players, though the 1st Cornet part
has some high notes.
Duration: 2'35"
LATIN QUINTET by James Moule
The Latin Quintet is a pastiche of three movements based on Latin American dance rhythms.
Percussion parts using castenets, etc may be improvised to suit the beat of each piece.
Also available for full band on this site.
Bolero
Duration: 1 min 40s.
Lament
Also available as a euphonium solo. Duration: 2 mins 45s.
Rhumba
Duration: about 2 mins.
Londonderry Air Traditional, arranged by James Moule
Easy. Duration: 2 mins 50s.
March D. 606 by Franz Schubert, arranged by James Moule
Working on the basis that, if it's a march, it should be played by brass, this version is based on popular piano piece "March in E Major".
Set for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass. Each part requires a competent player with an extensive range but otherwise, the piece is not very difficult. Good contest or concert piece.
Duration: 4 minutes.
March of the Priests from "The Magic Flute" by W.A. Mozart, arr. James Moule
Delightful short, reflective march which opens the second act of the opera.
Set for two cornets, Eb horn, euphonium and tuba (Eb or Bb).
Comfortably pitched and suitable for junior players who can play with sensitivity.
Duration: 2 minutes.
Marcheta by Victor L. Schertzinger, arr. James Moule
Schmaltzy piece from the 1920s. Baritone / trombone can replace euphonium.
Comfortably pitched and suitable for junior players who can play with sensitivity.
Duration: 2'25".
"March of the Peers" from "Iolanthe" by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
"Loudly let the trumpet bray, Tan-tan-tara, tzing boom!" Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and 4-valve Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
Sullivan's score for brass band is generally considered to be a "gut-buster" so a quintet is not going to be any less taxing.
Not difficult but 1st Cornet has several high As. Excellent for concerts and contests.
Duration: 5'30"
MASS IN B MINOR by J.S. Bach, arr. James Moule
Described by the Swiss publisher Nageli in 1817 as "..the greatest work of music
of all ages and all peoples", it is not surprising that these pieces translate so well
when played on brass.
Gratias Agimus
Basically the same piece as the "Dona Nobis Pacem" (see Full Band arrangements).
The piece begins solemnly and builds to a tremendous climax with the soprano cornet soaring above
the other instruments.
Scored for soprano (Eb) cornet, two Bb cornets, tenor horn and euphonium but a baritone part is supplied
for Part 4 in place of the tenor horn.
Note that this was first published in 2011 and some minor revisions were made in 2013.
Suitable for junior ensembles who can count four fast minims to a bar.
Duration: 2 mins 20s.
Et in Spiritum Sanctum
Scored for two Bb cornets, tenor horn, baritone horn and (4 valve) euphonium,
this shortened version of the beautiful pastorale can be paired with the Gloria
for an ideal concert or contest bracket.
As with all contrapuntal music, good counting is essential for everyone.
The range of some parts dictates fairly experienced players but otherwise, the piece
is not difficult.
Duration: 2'10".
Gloria in Excelsis
Scored for two Bb cornets, tenor horn, baritone and 4-valve euphonium, this is a
lively gigue canon, typical of Bach's keyboard suites.
The range for 1st cornet and tenor horn makes for some challenges and a 3rd cornet part is supplied
in case your tenor horn section can't manage an A.
Duration: 2'20".
A Medley of Scottish Songs arranged by James Moule
This quintet + drums is derived from the older full band version on this site.
The songs are "Annie Laurie", "Marie's Wedding", "Skye Boat Song", "Eriksay Love Lilt",
"Road to the Isles" and "Loch Lomond". Apart from a few highish notes, not difficult.
Suitable for junior contests and an excellent concert item.
Duration: 4'20".
"Merrie England" Medley by Edward German, arranged by James Moule
Edward Jones was told that one had to have a foreign name if one wanted to do well in music so he changed his name to "German".
Today, he is dismissed as a pale imitator of Sir Arthur Sullivan. His reputation is not helped by some of the amateur productions on his operas.
This medley consists of five of the best songs from his most popular work:
* Entrance of Queen Elizabeth (suitable to be played separately)
* "Love is Meant to Make Us Glad"
* "The Yeomen of England" (famously recorded by Peter Dawson)
* "O Peaceful England"
* "The May Queen Comes"
Scored for standard quintet with extra parts for French Horn and BC Part 4 & 5.
Suitable for junior contests and an excellent concert item.
Duration: 7'30".
Mikado, The (Finale Act 1) by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
"The Mikado" has remained the most popular of the G&S operettas for over 150 years.
As with most G&S operettas, the Finale to Act 1 is operatic in character with a string or choruses and solos creating increasing tension.
This arrangement is scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
There are other arrangements of other music from this opera on this site.
Excellent for concerts and suitable for intermediate players.
Duration: 5 minutes
Mikado, The (overture) by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
"The Mikado" has remained the most popular of the G&S operettas for over 150 years.
This arrangement of the Overture is scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
There are other arrangements of other music from this opera on this site.
Excellent for concerts and suitable for intermediate players.
Duration: 5'30"
Molly on the Shore by Percy Grainger, transcribed by James Moule
Lively arrangement of folk song, set here for two cornets, baritone, euphonium and Eb bass.
Alternate part 3 provided for tenor horn and bass clef parts for 3, 4 & 5. Parts 3 & 4 should be
on different instruments so that there is contrast. For the same reason, Part 2 could be played on flugel.
Not easy. Suitable for contests and an excellent concert item.
Duration: 4'30".
Mother, I Will Have a Husband by Thomas Vautor, transcribed by James Moule
Nice piece of Elizabethan counterpoint, set here for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass.
Very comfortably pitched and suited to players of intermediate standard.
Duration: 2 minutes.
Never Weather-Beaten Sail by C. Hubert H. Parry, arranged by James Moule
Once dismissed as Victoria sludge, Parry's music has been revived and appreciated again in recent times.
Mostly remembered for the hymn "Jerusalem", Parry wrote extensively for keyboard and voice.
This beautiful five-part motet from "Songs of Farewell" is based on a poem by Thomas Campion.
Here, it is arranged with flexible scoring, ideally two Cornets, Horn, Baritone and Eb tuba. Concert pitch versions are provided where appropriate.
This is a test of expressive playing with much syncopation and speed changes.
Most parts test a full range of pitch. Good as a junior contest piece.
Duration: 2'45".
ORGAN CONCERTO Op.7 No.6 by G.F. Handel, arranged by James Moule
Handel wrote some 16 concertos for keyboard. These were played as interludes in his operas
and were mostly arrangements of pieces published in other forms.
As English organs at the time did not have pedal boards, these pieces can be played on an electronic
keyboard, harpsichord or piano (but a real pipe organ sounds best and can match brass
accompaniment).
Good piece for an organ and brass concert.
Each movement here is scored for Eb cornet, Bb cornet, Flugelhorn,
euphonium and Eb bass, with extra parts for french horn and tenor horn and bass clef euphonium and tuba.
The organ part is as written by Handel, who would have changed ornamentation in repeats.
Total playing time: about 8 minutes.
1. Pomposo
Jaunty, strutting movement with the band playing most of the time. This can be followed either by an improvisation by the organist or by another movement from a Handel concerto.
Duration: 3'30".
2. Sarabanda
Handel would have improvised a slow, highly decorated movement here. Your organist might do this or choose a suitable movement from another work,
such as the one from Keyboard Suite No.4 offered here.
Duration: 1 minute
3. Rondo
A noble march-like movement.
Duration: 3'15".
O Sing Unto my Roundeley by Samuel Wesley, arranged by James Moule
Scored for standard quintet with extra horn and BC parts.
This a rather grim piece, featuring beautiful harmony that sounds well in a reverbant hall.
Comfortably pitched and suitable as a concert or contest piece.
Duration: 4'45"
Pastorale by Cesar Franck, arranged by James Moule
Scored for soprano, Bb cornet, flugel, baritone and Eb bass.
Reasonably straightforward
except for some high notes here and there. The difficulty lies in playing delicately,
lightly, something that brass band people don't do well.
Young players might not
have the patience and sensitivity required to make this beautiful piece glow.
The MIDI file provided does not do the piece justice. Listen to some YouTube clips.
Duration: 9'25"
Patience by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
Based of five songs from this Savoy opera. Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and 4-valve Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
The pieces are mostly choruses, providing much satisfaction for not much difficulty. Excellent for concerts and junior contests.
Duration: 4'40"
Pavane pour une Infante Defunte by Maurice Ravel, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, 4-valve euphonium and 4-valve Eb bass.
"Pavane for a Dead Princess" is an early work for piano which Ravel later orchestrated
using wind / brass instruments extensively and brilliantly.
This arrangement is much more difficult than it looks, requiring very sensitive playing
over a wide pitch range and a wide dynamic range.
Duration: 6 minutes
H.M.S. Pinafore by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and 4-valve Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn, Bb Tuba and Baritone in bass clef.
The pieces are mostly choruses, providing much satisfaction for not much difficulty. Excellent for concerts and junior contests.
Used by St.George Brass to win Under 15 Ensemble event at the 2022 Metropolitan Solo and Ensemble Competition.
Used by a St.George team to win Under 16 Quintet at the 2022 Hunter Solos.
Duration: 3'25"
Pirates of Penzance, The by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and Bb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Eb Tuba.
Bass clef versions of Tuba and Baritone parts are provided.
The pieces are mostly choruses, providing much satisfaction for not much difficulty. Excellent for concerts and junior contests.
Duration: 4'35"
Prelude BWV 544 by Johann Sebastian Bach, arranged by James Moule
Scored for soprano cornet, Bb cornet, Eb horn, euphonium and Eb bass.
This is an arrangement of the organ Prelude in B Minor. Though comfortably pitched, it requires five strong players
who can cope with the syncopation.
Great contest piece where longer time limits prevail. If sop hits that first note, the rest should follow.
Duration: 5'50"
Pretty Creature by Stephen Storace, arranged by James Moule
Stephen Storace (1762 - 1796) was an English composer who was
famous for his light operas, now largely forgotten.
This is a charming little piece that can be played with great style by players with unexceptional ability.
Scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, baritone (or similar) and Eb bass. Quite straightforward and comfortably pitched.
Duration: about 2 minutes.
Princess of Kensington by Edward German, arranged by James Moule
This "fairy opera" by Basil Hood and Edward German (nee Jones) lacks the wit of WS Gilbert but some of the music is worth preserving.
This selection features the Overture (Bridal March), the beautiful part song "Who that Knows" and the wild finale "See the Rainbow Arch".
Not difficult and suitable for concerts and junior contests.
Duration: 5'30".
Queen of the Valley by John Wall Callcott, arranged by James Moule
Dr.Callcott's glee for male voices is, here, set for the standard brass quintet: 2 cornets, tenor horn, baritone (trombone) and Eb Bass.
This is a straightforward piece, comfortably pitched. The several short solo passages and
duets make this both an excellent training piece to develop sonority and a suitable
contest piece for intermediate players.
Duration: 6'45" or 5 minutes without repeats.
Rosamunde Ballet Music by Franz Schubert, arranged James Moule
Set for the standard brass quintet: 2 cornets, Eb horn, baritone (trombone) and bass tuba.
This is a straightforward piece, comfortably pitched. It teaches attention to articulation and requires contrasting dynamics.
Suitable as a contest piece for inexperienced players. Both Eb and Bb bass parts are supplied, as is a French Horn part and Baritone part for Part 3.
Duration: 2'30"
Ruddigore (selections) by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
Sullivan's music cannot be blamed for the relative lack of popularity of this Savoy opera, which followed the enormous success of "The Mikado".
The tunes are catchy and the pieces are well-crafted. Though not well-known, they go together to make a suite with much variety.
This arrangement of the Overture and choruses is scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
All parts are comfortably pitched but there are a few bars in each part which require some proficiency.
Excellent for concerts and suitable for intermediate players.
Duration: 5'20"
Schumann Fanfare arranged by James Moule
Easy fanfare for five or more instruments, based on themes from Schumann's Piano Concerto.
Duration: 22 seconds.
Scottish Wedding Trad, arranged by James Moule
Straightforward arrangement of this Scottish folk tune, designed to prelude Jerry Lanning's excellent
arrangement of "O Waly Waly" (see Sibelius site).
Duration: 1 minute.
Sigh No More, Ladies by RJS Stevens, arranged by James Moule
With a title that demands appropriate punctuation, this short glee is suitable to partner a similar work in a concert.
Set here for a very flexible ensemble and suitable for doubling (nine- or ten-piece).
Comfortably pitched though the best combination is the standard brass quintet.
Duration: 1 minute.
Soldiers' Chorus from "Faust" by Charles Gounod, arranged James Moule
Set for the standard brass band quintet (2 cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass), this rousing
march requires five strong players due to the wide range of some parts. Suitable for high-level
contests and a great concert piece.
Duration: 4 minutes
Sonata e Tre by Arcangelo Corelli, arranged James Moule
Based on the duet on this site, this is scored for a standard quintet with a very high Part 3 for Baritone thrown in extra.
This is an excellent contest piece with several contrasting sections, demonstrating technical proficiency, range and tone.
Used by St.George Brass Junior Quintet to win Yamaha Brass prize at 2021 Musica Viva Strike a Chord Chamber music competition.
Duration: 6 minutes
Sonatina from Cantata BWV 106 by J.S. Bach, arranged James Moule
This prelude from the Bach church cantata "God's Time is the Best" is scored for
two cornets, tenor horn, eupho / baritone and Eb bass.It is excellent for developing
mellow ensemble playing. Great as a warm-up or a concert opener. Easy.
Duration: 1'35"
Song of the Golden Calf from Faust by Charles Gounod, arranged James Moule
In Act 2, Mephistopheles calls for a path to be cleared for the Golden Calf. It is a furious aria
in praise of greed and the new denizens of Hell that it brings. Set here for the standard quintet,
it is pitched comfortably and only 1st Cornet and Baritone need be strong players. The lowest part
is possible on euphonium and a CP part is provided for a bass trombone.
Duration: 2 minutes
Songs from the Land of St.George Traditional songs from England, arranged by James Moule
The full-band version of this suite of pieces was one of the earliest arrangements on this site.
The songs are: "Oh, No John", "Widdicombe Fair", "Barbara Allan" and "Somerset Wassail".
Strong players are required on 1st Cornet and Baritone parts but the other parts are straightforward.
While the drums could be omitted, the excitement of the final section would be lost.
The variety of moods make this an entertaining concert piece.
It is suitable for junior contests.
Used by a team from St.George Brass to win the Under 15 Ensemble event at the 2021 Sydney Metropolitan
Solo and Ensemble Competition.
Duration: 3'30"
Sorcerer, The (selections) by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
This, the first of the G&S full-length operettas, contains much good music that is not well-known.
There is variety of style, ranging from a minuet and a love song to the usual roaring gallop.
This arrangement of the choruses is scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
All parts are comfortably pitched and suitable for intermediate players.
Excellent for concerts but perhaps a little long for most junior contests.
Duration: 6'30"
Spanish Dance No.1 from "La Vide Breve" by Manuel de Falla, arranged by James Moule
This exciting concert / contest piece requires precise and spirited playing from
very competent players.
Duration: 3'30".
Spoon River by Percy Grainger, arranged by James Moule
All players have a chance to lead in this dramatic piece. Lots of dynamic contrast and changes of articulation.
Although best suited to two cornets, Eb horn, baritone and Eb bass, extra parts are supplied for French Horn, Baritone BC, Bb bass and Tuba BC.
The 1st Cornet and Bb Bass parts involve some high notes but most parts are rather low.
Duration: 3 minutes.
SUMMER LUNCH by James Moule
This three-part suite based on latin-American rhythms has a theme, lunch on a hot summer's day
in Sydney, Australia, home of St.George Brass Band. First course is a salad with
fresh vegetables and perhaps a slice of cold meat or salmon. Next comes seafood from the Sydney Fish Markets,
in this case, a mussel not too keen to be eaten. We have to wash it down with a
dry white from Margaret River. Finally, we have the fruit of the season, mango from Queensland
served with ice cream.
Scored for three Bb cornets, baritone, euphonium and percussion, with alternative
parts supplied for tenor horn and Eb bass.
This was written for a junior group to play in competitions. Not much difficulty.
These pieces could be played as a suite or separately.
Salad
Salad is what you get when you cross a Samba with a Ballad.
The percussion part could be played on drums or temple blocks. This piece was used by St.George
members in winning the Under 15 Ensemble section of the 2012 Metropolitan Championships.
Duration: Under 2 minutes.
The Selfish Shellish
Lazy, blues-style piece. Duration: 1 min 30s.
Mango Tango
Fast Tango. The percussionist should be given some freedom to improvise. Duration: 1'30".
Take O Take Those Lips Away by Robert Lucas Pearsall, arranged by James Moule
This beautiful glee requires sensitive and expressive playing.
Flexiset for 2 cornets, horn, baritone and tuba with extra parts including in concert pitch.
All parts are comfortably pitched and suitable for intermediate players.
Excellent for concerts and junior contests.
Duration: 2'20"
Tales from the Vienna Woods by Johann Strauss II, arranged by James Moule
Based on the duet on this site, this popular series of waltzes is set here for 2 cornets, horn, baritone and tuba with extra parts in concert pitch.
All parts are comfortably pitched and suitable for intermediate players.
Excellent for concerts and contests.
Duration: 4'15"
Trial by Jury (selections) by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
This, the first of the G&S successes, contains as much good music in 40 minutes as some 2 hour operas.
The tunes are catchy and the pieces are well-crafted. Though not well-known, they go together to make a suite with much variety.
This arrangement of the choruses is scored for two Bb cornets, Eb horn, Baritone and Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone in bass clef.
All parts are comfortably pitched and suitable for intermediate players.
Excellent for concerts and contests.
Duration: 3'15"
The Trumpet Shall Sound by G.F. Handel arr. Derek Moule
Great aria from "Messiah". Solo cornet needs stamina. Lowest part sounds well on
second eupho (part provided). Melody (4th part) sounds best on trombone.
A version of this piece has been on this site for several years. It was revised in
a better program in 2016 and a bass clef part added for the bass part. The two versions
are NOT compatible.
Suitable for Christmas or Easter.
Duration: 4 minutes.
Voices of Spring by Johann Strauss II, arranged by James Moule
Set for two cornets, tenor horn, euphonium and Eb bass, this is one of the best known works of Strauss.
Parts 1, 3 and 4 are quite difficult. Extra parts for French Horn, Euphonium CP, Bb Tuba and Tuba CP provided.
Duration: 5'30".
Wandering in Close Harmony by James Moule
Set for two cornets, tenor horn, trombone and Eb bass, this is another version
of the quartet on this site. Swing-style close harmony piece as typical of the 'forties.
Used for an International Jazz Day performance, this piece poses few difficulties.
Duration: 2'30".
Wandering the King's Highway by Leslie Coward, arranged by James Moule
This ballad of the 1930s was made famous by the Australian baritone, Peter Dawson.
I can find no biographical details of this composer; it might be that Dawson was the composer.
Set for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass, this is a straightforward, tuneful piece for
concerts and suitable for junior contests.
Duration: 2'20".
War March of the Priests by Felix Mendelssohn, arr. Jay Lichtmann
The arranger has kindly granted permission for this transposition to be placed on our site.
This is a fairly easy piece. Works even better with all parts doubled (i.e. ten piece).
Standard parts plus concert pitch trom and tuba.
Used by a St.George team to win Under 19 Ensembles at the 2019 Hunter Region Solos.
Duration: 3'10"
"Weary Wind of the West" by Edward Elgar, arranged by James Moule
Scored for the standard two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass, this beautiful choral piece
is a great test of harmonious playing. Very much in the style of "Nymrod".
Not difficult.
Duration: 2'40"
"When at Corinna's Eyes I Gaze" by Charles Hartford Lloyd, arranged by James Moule
Archaic in style for its time, this moving piece is good for training intermediate players. Scored for two cornets, tenor horn, baritone and Eb bass.
Comfortably pitched for all players and not difficult.
Duration: 2'40".
"When the Saints Go Marchin' In" arranged by James Moule
Scored for three cornets, baritone and trombone with Eb 3rd part provided.
Fun and not difficult.
Duration: 1'45".
"When Winds Breathe Soft" by Samuel Webbe, arranged by James Moule
Originally for SATTB choir, this is an excellent contest piece for intermediate players.
Featuring six contrasting sections and several little solos and duets, this arrangement suits cornet, horn and trombone choir (or similarly pitched instruments).
Comfortably pitched and not difficult, though the lowest part is low for euphonium.
Duration: 4'20".
"Yeomen of the Guard" selections by Arthur Sullivan, arranged by James Moule
Scored for two cornets, Eb Horn, Baritone and Eb bass with extra parts for French Horn and Baritone BC. 1st Cornet has a few high notes and other
challenges but other parts are not difficult.
Suitable for concerts and contests.
Duration: 4'30".