Spring Song - Fruhlingslied arranged for Wind Quintet

Mendelssohn's delightful Spring Song (Fruhlingslied) appears in the fifth volume of his Songs Without Words (Lieder ohne Worte), which were published between 1842 and 1844. The Songs Without Words are short, lyrical piano pieces that were intended for the drawing room but also well suited to the recital room. The Spring Song is one of the most well known and has been arranged for various combinations, including an arrangement by the composer for piano duet, and by others for small theatre orchestra and symphony orchestra. This arrangement for wind quintet remains in the original key of A Major, which Mendelssohn probably chose for its bright, Spring-like qualities. The melodic material is shared between all five instruments which helps bring some additional tonal variation and colour to this lovely piece. The clarinet part can be played by either A or Bb clarinet. Both parts are included in the set.