Classical Transcriptions - Classical Band Arrangements - 17 transcriptions of masterworks by Beethoven, Brahms, Mahler and others for wind ensemble

Strauss - THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE DANUBE, Op. 314

THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE DANUBE, Op. 314
by Johann Strauss, Jr.
Score 29 Pages 8 ½ x 14 (Legal)

Instrumentation: Piccolo, 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, 3 Bb Clarinets, 1 Bass Clarinet, 2 Bassoons, 1 Soprano Sax, 1 Alto Sax, 1 Tenor Sax, 1 Baritone Sax, 2 Bb Trumpets, 4 French Horns, 2 Trombones, 1 Baritone TC/Euphonium BC, 1 Tuba, 1 String Bass, Timpani, Piano/Harp, Triangle, Snare Drum, Bass Drum

Everyone knows the beginning of the Beautiful Blue Danube. It became a pop icon when it appeared in the movie, “2001, a Space Odyssey.” This arrangement takes a look at the many different melodies in the renowned waltz. The treatment of each section is somewhat similar throughout as the instrumentation of the waltz was fairly standard for each section.

There are two distinct considerations for the performer and the conductor in doing this piece. No. 1: The two, three feel of a Viennese waltz has a unique rhythmic pulse. Beat two is a hair early while beat three could be delayed. One has to listen to the waltz performed by the Vienna Symphony Orchestra to discover the freedom of this feel.

No. 2: Getting into and out of each section has such elasticity in tempo control. If the players learn their parts well enough to watch the conductor, the freedom of time will be a deeply enriching experience.

I found I had a lot of time during the Pandemic in March and April, so this piece and three others were tackled during this time. I hope someday to hear a group perform this and all the others.

When ordered, an e-file will be sent to you with both score and parts. Because of the size of the score (Legal) a professionally spiral-bound printed score can be sent to you for an additional $ 50.00 and ordered separately.