Alexander Borodin’s Second Symphony in B minor dates from the years 1869-76, a time when he was also working on his enduring opera Prince Igor. Flavors of the exotic and outdoor celebration seemed to have spilled over from the opera in this brilliant sonata movement. Borodin seldom quotes Russian folk tunes, but his graceful melodic lines are permeated with the spirit of his native song, supported by iridescent harmonies and bright colors. 
 
This arrangement for brass band was premièred by The Salvation Army’s New York Staff Band, with Ronald Waiksnoris conducting, at Alice Tully Hall in New York City on 11 April 2001. 
 
This complete transcription of the Finale movement of Borodin’s Second Symphony has an approximate duration of 6.40 minutes. To alternatively utilize the piece as an opener, a cut from bar 173 to 272 is indicated with Coda signs, reducing the piece to 4.30 seconds.
 
To view a rolling score video of the work please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7NyYDSU2bg
 
Difficulty Level: 2nd Section +
 
PDF download includes parts and score.
 
Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or www.cimarronmusic.com (USA)
 
Instrumentation:
Soprano Cornet Eb
Solo Cornet Bb
Repiano Cornet Bb
2nd Cornet Bb
3rd Cornet Bb
Flugel Horn Bb
Solo Horn Eb
1st Horn Eb
2nd Horn Eb
1st Baritone Bb
2nd Baritone Bb
1st Trombone Bb
2nd Trombone Bb
Bass Trombone
Euphonium Bb
Bass Eb
Bass Bb
Timpani
Percussion 1-3