The Earle of Oxfords Marche

Written during the late 16th Century when England was in a mood of national celebration after victory over the Spanish and French Armadas. The movement which Byrd called "Marche Before The Battell" became known as "The Earl of Oxford's Marche" and it appears with that title in an early manuscript copy of the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book, #259. This arrangement closely follows that manuscript. Brass players should agree on the use of articulation for this piece, especially for the 16th note sections, that being if the notes are tongued or slurred, and/or if the tempo is adjusted to a faster pace. This piece is dedicated to my wife, Sheila. I originally created a slightly different version for our wedding that was performed by the University of Kansas Brass Quintet.