Military March: Castle Hill

Description

This March takes its name from the hill that leads into the upper part of Windsor Castle. On spring mornings the sounds of a military band echo from the walls as it leads footguards up the hill into the Quadrangle, where the Changing of the Guard takes place.
The piece is in a cheerful 6/8 time. A brief introduction leads into the first principal section which is in two parts and features a lively melody. A short, sturdy linking passage is then followed by a trio section, in which an initially calmer, legato tune becomes more strong and joyous. The march finishes with a reprise of the first section.
Technical note for performance The piece is intended for playing by a standard marching band. Optional parts are included to enable it to be performed by a larger concert band (flutes, oboe, Eb and bass clarinets, bassoon and baritone saxophone). If the ensemble includes an Eb alto clarinet it may take the Eb alto saxophone part; if a Bb soprano sxophone is included it may take the 1st Bb clarinet part or the 1st cornet part as needed. The percussion parts are written for concert performance, but may be played ad lib. For marching the bass drum will usually be required to provide a regular beat throughout.