Popular Choral Works with Reduced Scoring in the Orchestral Parts

Verdi, Requiem

This version requires 1 flute (doubling on piccolo), 1 oboe, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, 2 off stage trumpets, 1 trombone, 1 bass trombone, tuba, timpani, bass drum and normal strings (eleven fewer wind players than Verdi's original).

The scoring has been done with a light touch so the solo parts in the wind section remain on the original instruments. The original Latin text only appears in the score. Only the B4 sized FULL SCORE  is available at the moment.

The advantages of using this version are

• The usual problem of the orchestra being too loud for the choir is resolved.
• The reduced orchestra will fit more easily into smaller venues.
• Twelve fewer wind players need to be hired easing the pressure on society budgets.

The disadvantages using this version include

• A less full sound, especially in the choruses and more dramatic moments.
• Not authentic.
• While fewer musicians are needed, they do need to be experienced players as the orchestration is more like chamber music with every note counting.

The set of orchestral parts (all A4 size) includes one each of the wind and percussion parts and 5 x first violin, 4 x 2nd violin, 4 x viola, 4 x cello and 2 x double bass.