Jubal’s Lyre, By G.F. Handel (1685-1759)
arranged by Neal Corwell
Instrumentation: solo euphonium, trombone, trumpet, clarinet, tenor or soprano sax, bassoon, or cello with piano (bass clef and B-flat treble solo parts are provided)
Copyright: 1987
Duration: 2:30
Range: F to c-1 (for euphonium/trb., 8va for B-flat trumpet)
Difficulty: II-III
Publisher: Nicolai Music
Price: $15
Other Info: Arrangement of the Aria Oh Had I Jubal’s Lyre from Handel’s oratorio Joshua.
TO PURCHASE
This energetic and jubilant aria is taken from Handel’s oratorio Joshua. This arrangement was originally published in 1987 by Kendor Music and was included on many state solo and ensemble lists during ensuing years. When it went permanently out of print 25 years later, Dr. Corwell re-obtained the rights to his arrangement so he could make it available through Nicolai Music.
Although the work is exciting to listen to, it is not of high difficulty because of the comfortable key and range, and the simple diatonic patterns upon which the long melismatic runs are based. This is an excellent contest piece for young players, and a good addition to the recital or church performance repertoire for anyone, be they amateur or professional.