Horn 1: g# - a2
Horn 2: B - f2
Horn 3: a - g2
Horn 4: A (opt. G) - f2
Horn 5: f - g2
Horn 6: A - e2
Creator's Comments
Performance Notes
The first movement of the Serenade for strings in E major op.22 opens with the theme in the 2nd violins (1st horn) to a quaver (eight note) accompaniment in the violas (2nd and 3rd horns). The celli (6th horn) takes the theme over a third lower, and subsequently it is traded between the players. The original key of E major in this arrangement was changed into G major (D major horn pitch), to limit the number of sharps in the key, and avoid the low tessitura.
New themes are introduced throughout the movement, and Jones distributes them evenly between the parts to every player has an opportunity to shine. Originally scored for string orchestra (5 voices), the 6th part covers the frequent double stopping, and provides some opportunity to include rests in an otherwise fairly thickly orchestrated work.
The string writing translates well to horn ensemble playing, and the Moderato from the Serenade op.22 is an audience favourite anyways, so this is a transcription well worth obtaining.