For many years, one of the musical highlights for band and orchestra students at my school was an annual excursion to see “DOCH Gypsy Orchestra” directed by my colleague and friend, Nick Lavers. After the event, the bus ride back to school and the days that followed were always full of excitement for this style of music in which most of the students had very little experience. Like any a Music teacher, I was keen to make the most of this newfound enthusiasm. That is how Gypsies came about. The piece incorporates part of an eastern European folk song called “Ushti Ushti Baba” which is traditionally used during wedding celebrations. I have attempted to recreate the sense of spontaneity, celebration and intense emotion that is so appealing in this style.

Sample Score