Although this composition sounds like it came straight out of the Baroque period it is actually the first movement of a suite written in 1996 by Karl Jenkins. Instantly recognized as the 'diamond commercial' theme its relentless pulse and dramatic nature make it a natural for bands. Robert Longfield's skilled arrangement puts it within reach of most groups.score and parts - 4 Flute I 4 Flute II 2 Oboe 4 Bb Clarinet I 4 Bb Clarinet II 4 Bb Clarinet III 2 Bb Bass Clarinet 2 Bassoon 2 Eb Alto Saxophone I 2 Eb Alto Saxophone II 2 Bb Tenor Saxophone 2 Eb Baritone Saxophone 2 F Horn I 2 F Horn II 3 Bb Trumpet I 3 Bb Trumpet II 3 Bb Trumpet III 3 Trombone I 3 Trombone II 2 Baritone B.C. 2 Baritone T.C. 4 Tuba I String Bass I Timpani 2 Percussion I 2 Percussion II - wind/concert band

Welsh composer Karl Jenkins dedicated his landmark mass The Armed Man to the victims of the 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. More recently it is been associated with remembrances of 9/11.The French Renaissance song “L'homme armé” serves as the basis for the first movement of the mass beautifully adapted here for standard concert band instrumentation. With its relentless pulse and haunting strains this is a dramatically emotional and riveting work!