The Land of the Mountain and the Flood (abridged)

Scottish composer Hamish MacCunn (1868 – 1916) tends, somewhat unfairly, to be regarded as something of a ‘one hit wonder’. The ‘hit’ in question is his concert overture The Land of the Mountain and the Flood.

The piece was written in 1887, when MacCunn was in his late teens, and was very well-received. Reviews of the first performance describe the work as ‘spirited and bold in conception, ‘brilliantly scored’ and ‘a charming Scottish overture that carries you over the hills and far away’.

The Scottish landscape, together with its literature and history, has provided inspiration for the works of many European composers. The Land of the Mountain and the Flood stands slightly apart. There is something about the piece – an element of authentic Scottish-ness – which seems to resonate particularly with the Scots. The work is a well-loved staple in the repertoire of Scottish orchestras, both amateur and professional.

This abridged version began life as a mixed-ability woodwind arrangement, created for a weekend course on the Isle of Skye. At the request of the Aberdeenshire Saxophone Orchestra, it was subsequently completely reworked for saxophone ensemble. The arrangement omits the rather challenging central section and instead finishes in the original key.

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)