Capriol Suite
By Peter Warlock / arr. Douglas E. Wagner
String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Grade: 2
Capriol Suite, by British composer Philip Arnold Heseltine (who wrote under the nom de plume Peter Warlock), is a set of six stylized Renaissance dances drawn from Thoinot Arbeau's comprehensive late-sixteenth-century vade mecum on the subject, "Orchésographie." The last two contrasting movements of the suite, "Pieds-en-l'air" (literally "feet in the air") and "Mattachins (Sword Dance)," were arranged with care for young string players. This would make an outstanding addition to a concert program anytime during the year, with music that is a delight for audiences to listen to and contains many opportunities for teachable moments. (2:25)