Composer

:

Percy Grainger

Genre

:

Band

Style

:

Arrangement: Folk Song

Compose Date

:

1902 - 1911

Publication Date

:

1918

Average_duration

:

4:12

"Irish Tune from County Derry" is a band music composed by Percy Grainger in 1902. The piece was originally written for piano and later arranged for military band and organ. The premiere of the band version was in 1918, performed by the U.S. Army Band. The piece is in three movements, with the first and third being slow and lyrical, while the second is more lively and dance-like. The first movement features a simple melody played by the woodwinds, which is then passed on to the brass section. The second movement is a lively jig, featuring a faster tempo and more complex rhythms. The third movement returns to the slow, lyrical style of the first, with the melody played by the brass section. "Irish Tune from County Derry" is characterized by its use of folk melodies and Grainger's unique harmonic language. The piece is based on the traditional Irish tune "Londonderry Air," which Grainger heard during a trip to Ireland. Grainger's arrangement of the tune features lush harmonies and rich textures, with the organ providing a warm, supportive accompaniment to the band. Overall, "Irish Tune from County Derry" is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that captures the spirit of traditional Irish music while showcasing Grainger's unique compositional style. Its popularity has made it a staple of the band repertoire, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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