Johann Strauss II
THUNDER & LIGHTNING POLKA for orchestra
Goodmusic Concert Classics GMCL239

Arranged by Peter Lawson
Orchestration:Flute, Piccolo, 2 Oboes, 2 Clarinets in Bb, 2 Bassoons, 4 Horns in F, 3 Trumpets in Bb, 3 Trombones, Tuba
Percussion [3 players: Cymbals (clashed), Snare Drum, Bass Drum]
Strings (Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Bass)

This is probably the best-known of Johann Strauss II’s Polkas - and a must for younger listeners, with its dramatic percussive explosions! To make it approachable for modern day orchestras, the Clarinets in C are replaced by Bb Clarinets and low F trumpets by Bb ones. Where appropriate, I’ve interlocked the Horns conventionally, with Horn 3 having the 2nd highest notes. I’ve also added a few more dynamics, where appropriate, including a fortissimo on the last note, as it seems to have been assumed rather than written - thus no-one can be accused of being a pedantic spoilsport! Moreover, the ’turn back’ to repeat the first section after the Trio and then ‘turn on’ to the Coda are written out in full to avoid the possibility of the parts flying around the stage to match the thunder and lightning! Peter Lawson

A PACK includes a full score plus a full set of wind, brass and percussion parts plus strings 4/4/3/4/2
Duration 3½ minutes