The Italian music publisher Scomegna is known for its high-quality publications of wind orchestra and wind ensemble works. The publisher’s new releases range from classical arrangements to contemporary compositions and offer a broad spectrum of musical styles and levels of difficulty. Under the title “From Bach to Verdi and two free works by Scomegna” we have compiled a series of new works recently published by this publisher.
Choral (from ‘Symphony #2’) by Gustav Mahler in the arrangement by Lorenzo Pusceddu: The chorale movement from Mahler’s ‘Symphony No. 2’ a poignant and moving musical experience that captures the essence of human existence and expresses the longing for transcendence and redemption. Its powerful message of hope and comfort speaks to the deepest feelings of the human heart and leaves an unforgettable impression on everyone who hears it.
Concerto in F for piano and wind orchestra by George Gershwin in the arrangement by Alessando Celardi: This arrangement of Gershwin’s “Concerto in F” is an impressive transformation that respects the original work and at the same time opens up new tonal dimensions. It shows how Gershwin’s music can be enlivened and expanded by different instrumentations, and makes this important work accessible to a wider audience. This adaptation emphasizes the timeless quality and innovative power of Gershwin’s composition and represents an enriching addition to the repertoire for wind orchestra.
Preludio from the opera “I Masnadieri ” by Giuseppe Verdi, in the arrangement by Davide Miniscaldo: The “Preludio” to “I Masnadieri” is a powerful and impressive overture which introduces the dark and dramatic atmosphere of the opera. With its striking themes and intense orchestrations, it prepares the listener for the emotional and musical climaxes to come. The music is typical of Verdi’s ability to combine characteristic melodies with orchestral drama, anticipating the emotional depths and tensions of the drama that follows.
Intermezzo from the opera “I Quattro Rusteghi” by Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari, in the arrangement by Valerio Semprevivo: Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari, a Venetian opera composer of the 20th century, was inspired by the styles of Mozart and Rossini and took the 18th century as his model. His 1906 opera “I quattro rusteghi” (The Four Misers), based on a play by Goldoni, revolves around the conflict between the generations and the dialectic between the sexes. The intermezzo from Act 2, characterized by a barcarole-like melody, is one of the most famous pieces in the opera.
Concerto for four horns by Heinrich Hübler, in the arrangement by Donato Semerano: Heinrich Hübler (1822-1893) was a German horn player and composer who is particularly known for his works for horn. His “Concerto for Four Horns” is one of his most remarkable pieces and a significant contribution to horn literature. This work stands out due to its unique instrumentation and the technical demands placed on the performers.
Prelude and Fugue, BWV.553, by Johann Sebastian Bach in an arrangement by Lorenzo Pusceddu: Pusceddu’s version of BWV 553 is an excellent example of how classical musical works can be transferred to new contexts without losing their original integrity. His arrangement requires a high degree of technical precision and musical understanding from the musicians in order to adequately portray Bach’s complex lines and harmonic structures.
Two free works for download
Debuttio is a concert march by Antonie Moretti. Free download with this link
Paperina, also a march, by Fernando Francia, Gradtisdownload here
The new releases from the Scomegna publishing house offer an impressive variety of musical works, including both classical masterpieces and modern compositions. The arrangements of Bach and Verdi allow wind orchestras to experience timeless musical works in a new context, while the contemporary works offer innovative and exciting musical experiences.
The two free works by Fernando Francia and Antonio Moretti are also a great opportunity for conductors and musicians to get to know the quality of the Scomegna publications and to expand their repertoire. Overall, this collection is a valuable addition to any wind orchestra and demonstrates the breadth and versatility of the Scomegna publishing house.