Henry Purcell

Sonata

A very flexible arrangement allows this trumpet standard to be played in several different keys. Arranged for trumpet sextet and a continuo instrument (bassoon or euphonium are suggested), this piece can be performed in B-flat, C or D. This accommodates the level of the performers and the pitch of trumpet selected to allow for this to be played at any occasion. In three short movements, the work can be altered to allow for timing at a concert. Set in two choirs of three trumpets each, antiphonal spacing is a very effective performance technique. All parts are interesting and none is difficult.