Galliard Battaglia: Concert Band Conductor Score & Parts

Scheidt's "Galliard Battaglia" carries genuine star power in band rooms because of its infectious rhythmic drive and the sheer fun of executing those flashy scalar figures. David Marlatt's arrangement for two trumpets and concert band preserves the piece's competitive energy and brilliant dialogue while opening it to ensembles who want major repertoire impact without quintet requirements. The "battle" between trumpet soloists and the ensemble creates natural audience engagement and gives your trumpet section a moment to shine.

Spirited and brilliant, with the energy of two musicians vying for musical supremacy. The cascading scales glitter and dance, while the rhythmic thrust underneath propels the music forward with unmistakable joy and virtuosic flair.

Directors programming Grade 3 concert band concerts who want a signature piece that engages audiences and showcases trumpet soloists. This works equally well for groups seeking substantial Baroque repertoire that feels contemporary and exciting rather than antiquated.

• Lock the articulation of the running scalar passages between the trumpet soloists; clean unison sixteenths in fast sections will define the piece's character and clarity.
• Balance the antiphonal exchanges so the trumpet soloists cut through without the ensemble overpowering them, particularly in the competitive "battle" sections.
• Let the trumpets explore the natural phrasing of their melodic lines; Baroque scalar writing benefits from slight breathing space between figurations.
• Shape the harmonic support in the band parts so accompaniment becomes responsive rather than rigid, following the soloists' rhythmic flexibility.

Position this as a second-half opener to wake up a post-intermission audience, or program it alongside other Baroque masterworks to build a thematic concert. The accessibility of Grade 3 makes it ideal for mid-season repertoire that builds confidence before spring festival season.

• Trading balanced solos between trumpets while maintaining ensemble cohesion
• Executing rapid scalar passages with precision and clarity
• Responding to antiphonal (call-and-response) musical dialogue
• Supporting solo lines with appropriate dynamic flexibility from the ensemble
• Managing Baroque phrasing and articulation in a modern band setting