The Hebrides Overture (Fingal’s Cave)

The literature of Scotland held a particular romantic fascination for Felix Mendelssohn and his family, so it was no surprise that the young German composer toured Scotland during his time in the UK. In the summer of 1829, he travelled by steamer from Fort William in the Scottish Highlands to Oban and thence to the island of Mull, in the Inner Hebrides. From there, Mendelssohn made the short boat trip to the small island of Staffa, to visit Fingal’s Cave – a sea cave formed of hexagonal basalt columns, with an interesting natural acoustic.

The Hebrides overture was inspired by this segment of Mendelssohn’s Scottish travels – although not specifically by the cave, as is sometimes believed. Felix had already sent outlines of the work’s principal themes to his sister Fanny prior to his visit to Staffa. The overture is an early example of a tone poem: a musical representation of the scenery, wind and weather of the Scottish Hebridean islands, reflecting their characteristic frequent and sudden changes.

The name Fingal’s Cave became associated with the piece after Breitkopf and Härtel published a score with this title (although the instrumental parts were labelled The Hebrides). Possibly because of its romantic associations, this alternative title is still often used – thereby ensuring the lasting popularity of Fingal’s Cave as a tourist destination!

This well-loved orchestral piece transfers surprisingly effectively to saxophone ensemble.

The PDF E-Edition includes a score and the following parts:
Sopranino Saxophone (preferable but optional)
Soprano Saxophone 1
Soprano Saxophone 2
Soprano Saxophone 3
Soprano Saxophone 4 (optional and easier)
Alto Saxophone 1
Alto Saxophone 2
Alto Saxophone 3
Alto Saxophone 4 (optional and easier)
Tenor Saxophone 1
Tenor Saxophone 2
Tenor Saxophone 3
Tenor Saxophone 4 (optional and easier)
Baritone Saxophone 1
Baritone Saxophone 2
Baritone Saxophone 3
Baritone Saxophone 4 (optional and easier)
Bass Saxophone (preferable but optional)
Contrabass Saxophone (preferable but optional)