Gustav Mahler’s 1st Symphony unlocked for flexible ensemble by Mark Goddard. This arrangement retains the essence of the great work, yet is easy to play and concise.
Originally published by Spartan Press in three separate packs that combined together (Woodwind, Brass Strings), this new edition covers all three versions in one bumper pack.
Symphony No. 1, sometimes referred to as ‘The Titan’, opens with a representation of a glorious sunrise featuring off-stage fanfares. After a formal Ländler and Trio (a precursor to the Viennese Waltz), the sinister Funeral March unfolds, based on a minor version of the French folk song “Frère Jacques”. The Finale (marked ‘Stubborn, with all power’) is breathtakingly exciting and dramatic, ending in triumphant and optimistic mood.
Instrumentation
This set includes a generic score plus the following alternative instrumental parts:
PART 1
Flute/Violin 1
and/or Bb Clarinet/Soprano Saxophone/Trumpet/Cornet
and/or Eb Alto Saxophone and/or Eb Soprano Cornet
PART 2
Flute/Oboe/Violin 2
and/or Bb Clarinet/Trumpet/Cornet
and/or /Eb Alto Saxophone
PART 3
Bb Clarinet
and/or Eb Alto Saxophone/Tenor Horn
and/or Bb Tenor Saxophone
and/or Horn in F
and/or Violin 3/Viola
PART 4
Bassoon/Trombone BC/Tuba/Cello/Double Bass
and/or Bb Tenor Saxophone/Trombone TC/Bb Bass TC
and/or Eb Baritone Saxophone/Eb Bass TC
Performance
To show the versatility of this arrangement, we’ve had some fun and scored each of the movements in different combinations.
In the last movement we’re combined wind, brass AND strings, making sure to organise pre-arranged rests as designated by the conductor to keep the texture varied.
First movement (Woodwind only)
Second movement (Brass only)
Third movement (Strings only)
Finale (Wind, Brass and Strings)