A4, Score (2) & parts (4x1=4, optional horn 4 in treble clef, 1, total=5)
Horns
4
Additional Equipment
Others
Other Instruments
Difficulty
1
Duration
4
Structure / Movements
One movement.
Allegro con spirito
Clefs
Treble, bass
Meters
4/4
Key signatures
1#
Range
Horn 1: d - a2
Horn 2: f# - b1
Horn 3: g# - g2
Horn 4: G - f#1
Creator's Comments
Performance Notes
This is another one of Martinet’s arrangements of classical favourites, the madrigal from The Mikado. The Mikado is a comic opera in two acts, to a libretto by Sullivan’s famous collaborator, Gilbert, and one of, if not their most successful work. There are a number of recordings available, so the music itself will not be described at length here.
Martinet’s arrangement features more prominent 3rd and 4th horns than usual, with runs in those parts rather than the first or second. As expected from a madrigal, the parts are largely homo-rhythmic with limited range, and a quiet ending rather than a rousing finale. Will all these attributes, the madrigal from The Mikado is even in the reach of ambitious beginner’s quartets.