Instrumentation
3(III=picc).3.3(III=bcl).3 – 4331 – timp – perc(2): BD+cym/tamb/SD/susp.cym/tam-t/t.bells/TD(if no small timp) – 2 harp(II=ad lib) – cel(=pno) – strings
Availability
Score 0-571-50807-3 on sale, parts for hire
Reviews
"The piece comprises a processional of festive figures over a slow walking bass leading to a clipped perky allegro, before returning in grandiose apotheosis; its slyness of harmonic slide-slipping and its skill in working up a structure from the slightest material are absolutely typical of the early manner which set elderly critics tut-tutting over Mr Britten's incorrigible 'cleverness'." Bayan Northcott, The Sunday Telegraph, 26 February 1984