Concert Band
Scenes from a Comedy
Grade 5 | 9 Mins
Scenes from a Comedy was commissioned by the Musikverein Allschwil (Switzerland) and first performed by them, conducted by Hans-Peter Erzer, at a concert on 25th November 2006, which celebrated their 111th Anniversary.
The work has no specific programme, but represents scenes from an imaginary pantomime in the Commedia dell’Arte tradition. It starts with a short but arresting Overture which is followed by Harlequin’s Entrance; this begins with a fanfare for two trumpets who introduce the knavish Harlequin, represented by a solo clarinet. He then dances a tender waltz with his lover, Columbine (solo flute), before the ‘play’ ends with a robust Finale and Peasants’ Dance.