Kings of Old

Kings of Old captures the regal and majestic sounds that might be heard in the royal court. Opening with horn and clarinet solos against low brass and sung "ahs," the piece moves into a royal procession, fully utilizing the percussion section. This noble piece reflects the ideals of wise, benevolent, and trustworthy leaders.

Program Notes

Kings of Old is the second installment of an unofficial "Lord of the Rings" triptych. Originally titled To Look Upon the Kings of Old, it is an allusion to a line of dialogue in the first film, where the future king of the Western realm passes by boat through a landscape populated by enormous monuments to past monarchs. He says to another character, "Long have I desired to look upon the kings of old." I was struck by the sense that it must be wonderful to live in a world where leaders are known to be wise, benevolent, and trustworthy.

Grade Level: 2
Copyright: 2005
Number of Players: Standard
Duration: 5:10
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Concert Band

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Instrumentation

Flute 1/2
Oboe 1/2
Bassoon
Bb Clarinet 1/2
Bass Clarinet
Alto Saxophone 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Bb Trumpet 1/2
F Horn 1/2
Trombone 1/2
Baritone
(Baritone T.C.)
Tuba

Timpani
Percussion 1(chimes)
Percussion 2 (marimba, bells)
Percussion 3 (snare Drum, crash cymbals)