Guardian of the Glen

From the peak of Ben Nevis and along the River Coe of Scotland the rugged terrain and thick mist gives us a victory dance in the way of the popular Scottish Fling style. Glenfinnan is a village in Scotland known as the site where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) raised his standard in 1745, marking the beginning of the Jacobite rising. Starting with both woodwind and brass choirs this piece moves out of the mist into a 6/8 Scottish Reel with victorious themes that involve the sound of swords clashing and percussive articulations from the whole group as well as the flourish of woodwinds with strong low brass punches. A reverent pause for the fallen soldiers of the distant past includes haunting Trumpet and French Horn solos before energetic themes complete this concert band classic. This is an audience favorite no matter what time of year it is programmed!

Instrumentation

Piccolo, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet 1, Clarinet 2, Bass Clar, Bassoon, Alto Sax 1, Alto Sax 2, Tenor Sax, Bari Sax, Trumpet 1, Trumpet 2, Trumpet 3, Horn in F, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Euphonium, Tuba, Timpani, Tubular Bells, Glockenspiel, Xylophone, Marimba, Snare Drum, Concert Toms, Bass Drum, Crash Cymbals, Brake Drum