Steven Ponsford’s vibrant arrangement of Auld Lang Syne offers an upbeat take on the traditional New Year's anthem made famous by Scottish poet Robert Burns in the 18th century.

The piece begins mysteriously over a Celtic percussion beat. In these opening moments, the euphonium solo - later joined by the flugelhorn - may be placed offstage or near the back of the performance area to create an ethereal, distant atmosphere, though conductors are encouraged to adapt the staging to suit their venue.

A solid, driving rhythm builds as the full band joins for the second verse, leading into a key change for a triumphant third verse characterized by a rich, warm full-band sound. Majestic chords transition into the final bars, where a feature in the percussion brings the arrangement to a energetic, rhythmic conclusion.

Bright and celebration-ready, this arrangement serves as an ideal light concert closer or festive encore.

To view a rolling score video please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe3fuJ6_EQU

Duration: Approx. 2.45 minutes

Difficulty Level: 4th Section +

This PDF download includes the full score and parts. 

Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or https://satradecentral.org (USA)

Instrumentation:

Soprano Cornet Eb

Solo Cornet Bb

Repiano Cornet Bb

2nd Cornet Bb

3rd Cornet 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 1-2