Scored for E-flat alto saxophone and tuba, this arrangement of the popular sea chanty What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor? was composed in July 2021 upon the invitation of Phantasmagoria Ensemble, Portugal (Hélder Alves, saxophone; Tiago Santos, tuba).

The first movement (Giocoso; crotchet = c. 120) commences with a jaunty saxophone melody set against a propulsive staccato tuba part. Following this introductory music (which is later used as a refrain), the sea shanty makes its appearance with melodic embellishments.

In the second movement (Un po’ ubriaco; crotchet = c. 88), the titular drunken sailor is evoked by a halting, pitching and rolling version of the sea shanty.

The third movement (Giocoso; crotchet = c. 120) rekindles the earlier jaunty music by way of an abridged recapitulation of material from the first movement, followed by a brief coda.

I extend my thanks to Phantasmagoria Ensemble for the opportunity to contribute to their repertoire.

Matthew Orlovich,
Composer.

World Premiere Performance – To be announced.

Performers: Phantasmagoria Ensemble (Hélder Alves, saxophone; Tiago Santos, tuba).

Stay tuned for details listed on my Concerts Calendar.