Commissioned by Birmingham Symphonic Winds, Shakespeare Pictures originates from incidental music composed for productions by the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon and London, and is now expanded and re-orchestrated to form a new three-movement suite for symphonic wind orchestra.
Much Ado About Nothing: Actually used as the entr’acte in the production itself, this movement – effectively a concert overture - uses material from the joyous dance sequences scattered throughout the well-known love story of Beatrice and Benedict, played on this occasion by Sinead Cusack and Derek Jacobi. The score was awarded a New York Drama Desk Award for ‘Outstanding Music in a Play’ during its run on Broadway.
The Winter’s Tale – The Statue: “Music, awake her, strike!” So says Paulina as the statue of Hermione comes to life at the end of this magical play. “Descend: be stone no more; approach; strike all that look upon with marvel.” In this production Jeremy Irons played a memorable Leontes.
Julius Caesar – The Entry to the Senate: this production featured a spectacular Senate scene, complete with cathedral organ and a battalion of brass players fanfaring the imminent death of Caesar himself.
Publisher: Faber Music
ISBN: 0571570070
Item Code: 0571570070
Series: Faber Wind Band