Composer

:

Ronald Binge

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1963

Average_duration

:

2:59

"Sailing By" is a piece of music composed by Ronald Binge, a British composer and arranger. The piece was composed in 1963 and premiered on BBC Radio 4's "Shipping Forecast" program on 31 August of the same year. The piece has since become synonymous with the program and is played every night before the forecast is read. The piece is a short orchestral work, lasting just over a minute, and is written in the key of D major. It is made up of three distinct sections, each with its own character and mood. The first section is slow and gentle, with a lilting melody played by the strings. The second section is more lively and upbeat, with a faster tempo and a more rhythmic melody played by the woodwind and brass sections. The final section returns to the slower tempo of the opening, with the strings once again taking the lead. The overall character of the piece is one of calm and tranquility, evoking the feeling of being out at sea on a peaceful, sunny day. The use of strings and woodwind instruments gives the piece a light and airy quality, while the brass adds a touch of warmth and depth. The melody is simple and memorable, with a gentle, flowing quality that perfectly captures the feeling of sailing on calm waters. Overall, "Sailing By" is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the "Shipping Forecast" program. Its popularity and enduring appeal are a testament to the skill and talent of Ronald Binge as a composer and arranger.

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