Men of Harlech: Brass Quintet Score & Parts

A march that strides forward with confidence and traditional character. There's a directness to the Welsh folksong that Marlatt honors here; you hear the tune clearly, the harmonies support rather than obscure it, and the overall effect is bold and satisfying.

Brass quintets working at the early intermediate level who want to develop solid ensemble fundamentals without getting bogged down by technical complexity. Ensembles preparing for festivals or contests benefit from a piece that showcases blend and balance while remaining accessible for all five voices.

• Anchor the march's forward momentum by locking the rhythmic foundation between the two lower brass voices; their steadiness makes space for the upper voices to project with conviction.
• Shape the dynamic gestures as a unit. When the arrangement calls for contrast, move together as a five-person instrument rather than as individuals responding independently.
• Pay close attention to intonation during the tutti passages. The bold character of this piece demands clarity, which depends on precise tuning throughout the ensemble.
• Let the folk melody breathe. Even in an easy arrangement, small rubato and phrase shaping at natural cadences add character without compromising the march's essential drive.

Program this as a festival or contest entry where judging criteria emphasize ensemble balance and musicianship rather than technical fireworks. It also serves as an excellent opener or early-concert piece that establishes energy and draws the audience in without demanding an intermission to reset attention.

• Blend and balance within a five-voice ensemble
• Dynamic control and uniform crescendo and decrescendo across voices
• Tuning adjustments in mixed intervals and chord qualities
• Phrase shaping and stylistic conventions of march music
• Rhythmic precision and synchronized articulation in a homophonic texture