Second Suite in F for Military Band – Symphonic Band Edition by Gustav Holst Concert Band - Digital Sheet Music

SKU: A0.1882298

Gustav Holst’s Second Suite in F for Military Band is one of the cornerstones of the wind band repertoire, celebrated for its masterful use of English folk melodies and its transparent yet richly colored orchestration. This new symphonic band edition presents the complete work in a reimagined setting, expanding the sonic palette while preserving the clarity, balance, and character of Holst’s original conception.

The arrangement retains the suite’s four-movement structure – March, Song Without Words (“I’ll Love My Love”), Song of the Blacksmith, and Fantasia on the “Dargason” – each movement carefully adapted to the broader resources of the modern symphonic band. The enhanced instrumentation allows for greater dynamic range, deeper harmonic support, and a more expansive timbral spectrum, particularly through the refined use of low woodwinds, extended brass writing, and a fuller percussion section.

Special attention has been given to maintaining the stylistic authenticity of the folk material while enriching textures and reinforcing structural climaxes. The lyrical second movement benefits from a more sustained and expressive sonority, while the rhythmic vitality of the outer movements is intensified through sharper articulation and more brilliant orchestral colors. The final movement’s contrapuntal interplay emerges with increased clarity and brilliance, offering a powerful and satisfying conclusion.

This edition is intended for advanced ensembles seeking a concert work that bridges tradition and modern symphonic band sound, providing both musical depth and expressive versatility.

Instrumentation:

Full Score (A3 Portrait), Parts (A4 Portrait): Piccolo, Flute 1., 2., Oboe 1., 2., Bassoon 1., 2., Clarinet in Eb, Clarinet in Bb 1., 2., 3., Alto Clarinet in Eb, Bass Clarinet in Bb, Alto Saxophone 1., 2., Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Bass Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1., 2., 3., Horn in F 1., 2., 3., 4., Trombone 1., 2., 3., Euphonium 1., 2., Tuba 1., 2., String Bass, Timpani, Snare Drum/Tambourine, Bass Drum/Triangle/Anvil, Cymbals, Glockenspiel, Marimba/Vibraphone.

Optional Parts:

Horn in Eb 1., 2., 3., 4., Trombone in Bb (T.C.) 1., 2., 3., Euphonium in Bb 1., 2. (T.C.), Tuba in Bb 1., 2. (T.C.), Tuba in Eb 1., 2. (T.C.)

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