Charles Ives (composer), William Schuman (arranger), Joshua Kearney (transcriber)
Instrumentation
- Piccolo ((doubling Triangle))
- Flute 1 ((doubling Tambourine))
- Flute 2 ((doubling Castanet))
- Flute 3 ((includes divisi))
- Flute 4
- Alto Flute 1
- Alto Flute 2
- Bass Flute 1 ((doubling Slapstick))
- Bass Flute 2
- Contrabass Flute (opt.)
Composed as an organ solo by the 17-year-old Ives for his own performances, the beloved VARIATIONS ON “AMERICA” is a treat for any occasion, whether a holiday concert, a serious recital, or other special events. Starting from William Schuman’s famous orchestral arrangement, Joshua Kearney’s rich and colorful adaptation is scored for 1 Piccolo, 4 C Flutes, 2 Alto Flutes, 2 Bass Flutes, and 1 optional Contrabass Flute, plus simple Percussion played by members of the ensemble. This versatile transcription is equally suitable for 1-per-part groups as well as large ensembles.