William Tell Overture

Designed for developing bands with 1.5-2 years of ensemble experience, this arrangement allows musicians of varying levels to tackle a full-scale concert work with success and gain musical development along the way. The overture to RossiniAAAs work William Tell is one of the most recognizable classical works in the orchestral repertoire. Many arrangements, especially those aimed at younger bands, do not treat this work seriously, focusing on the AAAfinaleAAA section and its characteristics which emulate horse riders (it was used in AAAThe Lone RangerAAA TV show after all). While this arrangement does include the famous finale, it also includes the other parts of the overture, from the serene and pastoral opening to the ferocious, thundering AAAstormAAA section. Many rhythms, textures, and melodies are simplified to accommodate the intended level, while the original character and orchestration of the piece are maintained as much as possible. The ranges of instruments are designed to accommodate developing players. The second clarinet part does not cross the break, and the first clarinet part does not go higher than "A" above the staff. Both trumpet parts stay in a conservative range, the first staying at "D" with an optional "F" at the top of the staff, and the second staying at "C" near the middle of the staff. The horn and trombone parts follow a similar pattern, topping out at "D" in the horn and "C" above the staff in the trombone (with an optional "E-flat"). Percussion parts also include a few 5-, 7-, and 9-stroke rolls, applying many important drumming rudiments. The opening section creates many opportunities for bands to explore phrasing, air support, and breath control. All instruments get an opportunity to play melodic material throughout the piece, including percussion.