Children’s March, “Over the Hills and Far Away”

Percy Grainger (1882–1961) was born in Brighton, Australia, and came to America in 1915 as a recognized pianist and a leading interpreter of the Grieg Concerto. His distinctive orchestrations and use of instrument timbre (tone color), specifically in the larger lower reeds (bassoon, bass clarinet, tenor and baritone saxophone), are clearly evident in Children’s March, “Over the Hills and Far Away.” This light-hearted and fanciful march was one of the first works for concert band to include piano as an integral part of the orchestration. The tune is first introduced by the bassoon and baritone saxophone, and progresses through a series of instruments and orchestrations, punctuated by rhythmic articulations and abrupt dynamic treatments. (Source: JRO)