Composer

:

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Genre

:

Band

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1923

Average_duration

:

11:04

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

The 'English Folk Song Suite' is a three-movement band music composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams. It was composed in 1923 and premiered in the same year by the military band of the Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall. The suite is a tribute to the English folk music tradition and is considered one of the most popular and enduring works in the band repertoire. The first movement, 'March - Seventeen Come Sunday', is based on the folk song of the same name. It is a lively and energetic march that captures the spirit of the English countryside. The melody is introduced by the clarinets and is then passed on to the other sections of the band. The movement features a contrasting middle section that is more lyrical and reflective before returning to the main theme. The second movement, 'Intermezzo - My Bonny Boy', is a slow and melancholic piece that showcases the expressive capabilities of the band. The melody is based on a traditional English ballad and is played by the solo cornet. The movement is characterized by its rich harmonies and delicate orchestration. The final movement, 'March - Folk Songs from Somerset', is a lively and upbeat march that features a medley of three folk songs from the Somerset region of England. The movement is characterized by its driving rhythms and catchy melodies. The first tune, 'Blow Away the Morning Dew', is played by the flutes and is followed by 'High Germany', played by the trombones. The final tune, 'The Trees They Do Grow High', is played by the full band and brings the suite to a rousing conclusion. Overall, the 'English Folk Song Suite' is a masterful tribute to the English folk music tradition. Vaughan Williams' skillful use of orchestration and harmony brings these timeless melodies to life and showcases the versatility and expressive capabilities of the band. The suite remains a popular and enduring work in the band repertoire and is a testament to the enduring power of folk music.

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