Instrumentation

3(III=picc).3.3(III=bcl).3 – 4331 – timp – perc(2): BD+cym/tamb/SD/susp.cym/tam-t/t.bells/TD(if no small timp) – 2 harp(II=ad lib) – cel(=pno) – strings

Availability

Score 0-571-50807-3 on sale, parts for hire

Reviews

"The piece comprises a processional of festive figures over a slow walking bass leading to a clipped perky allegro, before returning in grandiose apotheosis; its slyness of harmonic slide-slipping and its skill in working up a structure from the slightest material are absolutely typical of the early manner which set elderly critics tut-tutting over Mr Britten's incorrigible 'cleverness'." Bayan Northcott, The Sunday Telegraph, 26 February 1984

American Overture, An

BBC Hoddinott Hall, Wales Millennium Centre (Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom)

BBC National Orchestra of Wales/Tomas Djupsjöbacka