Song Without Words

by Gustav Holst; arr. John Herndon

Easy/Medium Concert Percussion

7-9 Players

Instrumentation: • Glockenspiel • 2 vibraphones • 2-3 marimbas* **—(1) 4 octave, (1) low A, (1) low C • 2 timpani** * If 3 marimbas aren’t available, this piece can be performed on 2 instruments with M1 and M3 sharing a low A instrument and M2 and M3 sharing a low C instrument. ** The timpani and Marimba 4 parts are optional

Gustav Holst was one of the most renowned English composers of the 20th century. His two suites for military band are now staples in today’s wind ensemble repertoire. Tapspace artist John Herndon has done a fantastic job of adapting the second movement of Holst’s Second Suite in F for percussion ensemble and piano.

Based on the Cornish folk song I’ll Love My Love, this movement lulls and swells its way through the key of F-minor in order to portray the turbulent emotions of lost love. Herndon has orchestrated this movement brilliantly, capturing the essence of Holst’s original piece, with the percussion now taking center stage.

In addition to the printed score you are receiving downloadable:

✅ Individual Parts
✅ Full Recording