Edward Elgar

Falstaff op. 68

Falstaff, Op. 68 (Symphonic Study) was composed in 1913 by Edward Elgar (1857-1934) as one of his most ambitious orchestral works, inspired by Shakespeare's beloved character Sir John Falstaff from Henry IV and The Merry Wives of Windsor. Rather than a traditional tone poem, Elgar conceived the piece as a richly detailed psychological portrait, tracing Falstaff's humor, swagger, warmth, and ultimate decline through intricate thematic transformation and masterful orchestration. Falstaff was premiered on December 19, 1913, in Leeds, conducted by Sir Henry Wood, and was immediately recognized for its complexity and symphonic scope. Although less frequently performed than Elgar's Enigma Variations or concertos, Falstaff is today regarded as one of his finest orchestral achievements. Movements: I. Falstaff and Prince Henry; II. Eastcheap - Gadshill - The Boar's Head. Revelry and sleep - Dream Interlude (Poco allegretto); III. Falstaff's march - The return through Gloucestershire - Interlude: Gloucestershire. Shallow's orchard (Allegretto) - The new king - The hurried ride to London; IV. King Henry V's progress - The repudiation of Falstaff, and his death. Instrumentation: 2+1(Picc).2+1(EH).2+1(BCl).2+1(CBsn): 4.3.3.1: Timp.Perc(3-4): 2Hp(2nd ad lib): Str (9.8.7.6.5 in set). Reprint edition.