God Only Knows

From Wind Repertory Project
Brian Wilson

Brian Wilson and Tony Asher (arr. Michael Brown)


General Info

Year: 1966 / 2016
Duration: c. 2:35
Difficulty: II (see Ratings for explanation)
Original Medium: Pop song
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Cost: Score and Parts (print) - $55.00; (digital) - $55.00   |   Score Only (print) - $5.00


Instrumentation (Flexible)

Full Score
Part 1

  • Flute
  • Oboe
  • B-flat Soprano Clarinet
  • B-flat Trumpet
  • Violin

Part 2

  • B-flat Soprano Clarinet
  • E-flat Alto Saxophone
  • B-flat Trumpet
  • Violin

Part 3

  • B-flat Soprano Clarinet
  • E-flat Alto Clarinet
  • E-flat Alto Saxophone
  • B-flat Tenor Saxophone
  • Horn in F
  • Violin
  • Viola

Part 4

  • Bassoon
  • B-flat Tenor Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Euphonium
  • Horn in F
  • Cello

Part 5

  • Bassoon
  • B-flat Bass Clarinet
  • E-flat Baritone Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Euphonium
  • Tuba
  • String Bass
  • Electric Bass
  • Cello

Percussion I-II-III-IV, including:

  • Bells
  • Cowbell
  • Drum Set
  • Sleigh Bells
  • Suspended Cymbal
  • Tambourine
  • Temple Blocks
  • Xylophone


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Recorded as part of the Beach Boy's 1966 landmark Pet Sounds album, this ballad is a prime example of Brian Wilson's innovative approach to songwriting and recording. Hailed for its formal and harmonic complexities, as well as a memorable hook, it has stayed popular through the years and was featured prominently in the biographical film Love and Mercy.

- Program Note from publisher


God Only Knows is a song written by Brian Wilson and Tony Asher for American rock band the Beach Boys, released in May 1966 on the group's album Pet Sounds. Two months later, it was released as the B-side of Wouldn't It Be Nice.

The song names God in its title and lyrics, which was unusual for a pop single at the time. The sentiments expressed in the lyrics were not specific to any God, and could be addressed to any higher force, being a song about moving forward after loss. Wilson said that his and Asher's intention was to create the feeling of "being blind but in being blind, you can see more".

- Program Note from Wikipedia


Media


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

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Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


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