Waltz No 2 By Dmitri Shostakovich Arr James Curnow Pdf Link
James Curnow’s arrangement of Dmitri Shostakovich’s "Waltz No. 2" is an exceptional educational tool and an undeniable crowd-pleaser. It bridges the gap between classical Soviet orchestration and the modern concert band. By sourcing your sheet music through legal, authorized digital platforms, you support the legacy of the composers while providing your ensemble with a timeless piece of musical history. Share public link
To secure a legal copy for your ensemble, use the following avenues:
The piece walks a fine line between a romantic dance and a satirical mockery of the waltz form. It is this emotional duality—sweet yet slightly sinister—that makes it a compelling programming choice for high school and college ensembles.
Do you need the or a flexible ensemble version? waltz no 2 by dmitri shostakovich arr james curnow pdf link
Shostakovich’s original melody moves from alto saxophone to trombone and strings. Curnow masterfully distributes these lines across the concert band instrumentation, utilizing the rich colors of the woodwinds (especially clarinets and saxophones) and the bright, triumphant declaration of the trumpets and horns.
: The piece achieved massive global fame after being featured prominently in Stanley Kubrick’s final film, Eyes Wide Shut (1999). This renewed interest sparked a demand for accessible wind band arrangements. The James Curnow Adaptation
Dmitri Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2: James Curnow’s Concert Band Arrangement By sourcing your sheet music through legal, authorized
Spend time in your warm-up isolating the accompaniment. Have the tubas, low reeds, and trombones practice playing Count 1 with a slight accent followed by immediate decay. Have the mid-range players practice Counts 2 and 3 as detached, lifted notes. If the accompaniment becomes muddy or sustained, the lyrical solo lines will be completely buried. 2. Phrasing the Saxophone Solo
: A reliable source for purchasing the physical or digital concert band score .
: Features a recurring main theme in minor tonality with contrasting trio sections. Instrumentation Do you need the or a flexible ensemble version
Shostakovich's Waltz No. 2, arranged by Curnow, features a lilting 3/4 rhythm, charming melodies, and lush harmonies. The piece begins with a statement of the main theme, followed by a series of variations and elaborations. The arrangement showcases the range and expressiveness of the concert band, with solos and sectionals that highlight the unique timbres of each instrument.
: The official publisher (G. Schirmer) provides both physical scores and digital information. J.W. Pepper : A reliable source for concert band sets and scores. Sheet Music Plus Social Media Post Draft
The opening melody needs room to breathe. Encourage your solo alto saxophonist to play with a subtle amount of vibrato and to stretch the phrases slightly without pulling the rhythm apart. They should emulate a dark, European classical saxophone tone rather than a bright jazz sound. 3. Managing the Percussion
