Royal Fireworks Music

From Wind Repertory Project
George Frideric Handel

George Frideric Handel (arr. H. Sartorius)


General Info

Year: 1749 / 1941
Duration:
Difficulty: IV (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Theodore Presser
Cost: Score and Parts – Out of print.

For availability information, see Discussion tab, above.


Movements

1. Overture
2. Bourée
3. La Paix
4. Menuet
5. Allegro


Instrumentation

Full Score
C Piccolo
Flute I-II
Oboe I-II
Bassoon I-II
E-flat Soprano Clarinet
B-flat Soprano Clarinet I-II-III
E-flat Alto Clarinet
B-flat Bass Clarinet
E-flat Alto Saxophone I-II
B-flat Tenor Saxophone
E-flat Baritone Saxophone
B-flat Bass Saxophone
B-flat Cornet I-II-III
Horn in F I-II-III-IV
Trombone I-II-III
Euphonium
Tuba
String Bass
Harp
Timpani
Percussion, including:

  • Bass Drum
  • Crash Cymbals
  • Orchestra Bells
  • Snare Drum


Errata

None discovered thus far.


Program Notes

Written for an outdoor performance in 1749, Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks exemplifies early Classical conventions of notation. Unless the edition used includes modern annotations, performers must possess an understanding of Classical performance practices, including the interpretation of dotted rhythms, trills, and articulation styles. Even if the edition is updated, the conductor and performers should invest research into appropriate practices of similar works from this era to promote a thorough understanding of proper musical style.

- Program Note from Great Music for Wind Band


A classic example of a Baroque masterpiece! As with The Messiah and The Water Music, this stirring work features familiar melodies, stately rhythms, regal trumpets, and a jubilance that will raise the spirits of everyone in your audience. Scored by Frank Erickson for full concert band in four movements, this work presents a variety of tempos and styles suitable for any concert or festival performance. A superb addition to the repertoire for more advanced bands!

- Program Note from publisher


[This edition of] the Royal Fireworks Music is intended for performance as a Concerto Grosso with a group of solo instruments contrasted against the rest of the band. This solo or Concertino group consists of eleven instruments: one flute, one oboe, two clarinets, one alto saxophone, one bassoon, two cornets, two horns, and one baritone. The players should sit in front of the band as a separate solo ensemble.

- Arranger's Preface from condensed score


Media

(Needed - please join the WRP if you can help.)


State Ratings

None discovered thus far.


Performances

To submit a performance please join The Wind Repertory Project

  • World Youth Wind Orchestra Project (WYWOP) (Schladming, Austria) (Johann Mösenbichler, conductor) – 13 July 2019
  • Danville (Calif.) Community Band (Robert Calonico, conductor) – 2 April 2017
  • Peninsula Symphonic Band (Palo Alto, Calif.) (Jason McChristian, conductor) - 16 August 2015


Works for Winds by This Composer

Adaptable Music


All Wind Works


Resources