In the 19th century, the English composer John Stainer wrote a cantata named "The Crucifixion". It contains a beautiful a capella setting of the Biblical text from John chapter 3 verses 16 & 17. I have taken this regularly performed setting, and created a meditation for band, which will sound beautiful in that Hymn spot in your concert programme.
If you like the music of Rachmaninoff, then you will love this piece. That spectacular sound that we all know, with busy, melodic bass lines, and a middle section in his well known 'romantic' style - (I could already hear the euphonium playing those rippling arpeggios).
In response to the enthusiasm for this magnificent piece, I have lightheartedly commented that maybe he wrote it for brass band, but there wasn't one available, so he did it for piano instead!
The three pieces which I have arranged for brass band are INTRODUCTION, ORGAN SOLO and INTRADA from Janacek's Glagolitic Mass. They work equally well together or on their own, as they each have their own identity. They can be purchased together or separately.
1. INTRODUCTION - A great 'starter' for the first or second half of a concert. (Dur: 3:30)
2. ORGAN SOLO - This is a 'must' if you want to impress your audience - every section of the band is incredibly busy, (although they can be assured that they do have time to breath)! (Please note that there are no timpani or percussion in "Organ Solo"). (Dur: 2:30)
3. INTRADA - This piece, (and no.1 "Introduction"), both contain that 'fanfare' like quality which Janacek is famous for in his Sinfonietta. (Dur: 1:30)
