The European Anthem

The melody of this anthem is taken from Beethoven's Symphony No 9, Op 125, often known as the "Choral Symphony". The last movement is a setting of Schiller's poem "Ode to Joy". Beethoven completed the work in 1824. The theme was adopted as the European Anthem by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in January 1972. This quick and easy national anthem arrangement is essential for traveling musicians, bands, instrumental and school groups and both amateur and professional ensembles. This arrangement is convenient to use and you can play it with any virtually any combination of conventional instruments found in the band or orchestra. The arrangement can be used with symphonic band, clarinet choir, brass ensemble, brass band, solos, duets and trios - almost anything! This arrangement is in five independent parts each transposed into a variety of keys. For the most satisfying sound you will need to get a good balance between each part possibly with an emphasis on the melodic line. If you have a non-standard ensemble, you can "pick and mix" as required. The piano reduction can fill missing parts or can be used as the basis for an accompaniment. This arrangement consists of the score with seven instrumental staves (including timpani) and three percussion staves. The following parts are available: Part 1 in B flat, E flat and C; Part 1a in C (8ve higher), E flat (minor 3rd lower for E flat cornet); Part 2 in B flat, E flat and C; Part 2a in C, (8ve higher) E flat (minor 3rd lower for alto clarinet); Part 3 in B flat, E flat, C and F; Part 3a in B flat (8ve lower for 3rd clarinets); Part 4 in B flat, E flat, C and F and Part 5 in B flat, E flat and C. There are also parts for timpani, percussion (2-3 players) and a piano reduction.