Music For Horns

This is yet another arrangement of a work that needs little introduction. The Air on a G string has been transcribed for almost any conceivable combination of instruments, and probably a couple of times for horn ensemble as well. This version is taken from the original Orchestral Suite no.3 in D major BWV1068, written some time around 1720. According to Wikipedia, the name Air on a G string stems from violinist Wilhelmi’s first (?) arrangement of the work (for violin and piano, transposed into C major and an octave down, therefore making it possible to play on just the G string), and by now this name is better known than the original. However, as this version is in the original key of D major, the original title has been used.

This work, and the key it is in, is perfect for an arrangement of medium difficulty. The lowest note is a pedal E (the dominant of sounding D major), and the highest one is a high F sharp (used sparingly in chromatic sequences), and the main range used is two octaves (low D to high D). What makes this arrangement interesting then is the distribution of parts, with the tune (and the bass-line) evenly distributed between the players.

Regarding embellishments, none have been added, so this is really just a transcription of the original music, with freedom of interpretation given to the performer. You may notice some liberty taken in the recording featured below, and this could even be done more extensively. Overall, a welcome (and free) addition to the existing music for French horn ensembles, and one of my rare widely accessible arrangements.