Fêtes

(from Trois Nocturnes)

by Claude Debussy – arranged for wind orchestra by Robert Lennon

Presenting a new arrangement of Claude Debussy’s Fêtes (the second movement of Nocturnes, 1899), originally for orchestra, here re-imagined for wind orchestra / symphonic band.

Listen and follow the score on YouTube;

Dazzling colours, shifting lights, dancing rhythms – audiences will love it!

Fêtes is one of Debussy’s most celebrated impressionist works, here adapted to harness the colours and sonorities of the modern wind ensemble. Fêtes depicts a dazzling celebration with shifting lights, dancing rhythms, and in its central section, the remarkable evocation of an approaching torchlit procession.

This arrangement preserves Debussy’s luminous textures while exploring the expressive possibilities of the wind orchestra. Ideal repertoire for more advanced ensembles: university, conservatory, and professional bands.

Although the arrangement calls for cor anglais and harp, cues for other instruments to play in their absence are provided.
Alternative clarinet parts, in B flat throughout, are provided in addition to those for clarinet pairs (B flat & A).

Instrumentation

Piccolo
Flutes 1, 2 & 3
Oboes 1 & 2
Cor Anglais
Clarinet in E♭
Clarinets 1, 2 & 3 in B♭/A
Bass Clarinet in B♭
Alto Saxophones 1 & 2
Tenor Saxophones 1 & 2
Baritone Saxophone
Bassoons 1 & 2
4 Horns in F
3 Trumpets in B♭
2 Trombones
Bass Trombone
2 Euphoniums
2 Tubas
Harp
Timpani
Snare Drum
Clashed Cymbals
Suspended Cymbal
Double Bass