Music: When I’m 64

When I’m 64 
Paul McCartney,
arranged by Dorothy Gates 
Triumphonic Productions – Major Works
for Brass Band 
www.music.use-salvationarmy.org/pubs/abj.html

Composer, Dr. Rodney Newton reviews another new release from Triumphonic Productions

In recent years, Belfast-born Dorothy Gates (currently living in the USA where she is Composer-in-Residence with the New York Staff Band), has risen to become one of the most accomplished and prolific of contemporary Salvationist composers and arrangers. Here, however, she is wearing her 'civilian' clothes in a witty and effective arrangement of this Beatles classic.

Scored for the 'usual' Salvation Army line-up with just three Bb cornet parts, McCartney's perky tune is first given to a solo cornet and then, after an interlude, to the soprano cornet before eventually appearing in the full band.

Percussion is kept busy with a drum kit part, tubular bells and a xylophone solo (although this is doubled by the soprano cornet). Intended to be played in swing time, this arrangement should suit any band capable of catching the right style. It would make a bright item for an entertainment programme

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