Covent Garden

Coates evidently wrote it for quite a virtuoso light orchestra. The harp part looks particularly “professional” as he wrote it, though I’ve simplified it in one or two bits, ditto some of the string figuration. (It would have been rather unfair on our players if we’d retained some of the triple-stop chords, and it’s evident Coates didn’t subscribe to a violists’ union, in spite of the fact that he was once one!)

I thought I’d research the song Cherry Ripe for the sake of those (non-British) who may not be familiar with the tune. Apparently its composer (Charles Edward Horn) was sued for plagiarism but won the case after (allegedly) giving sung renditions in court of both his and his rival (Thomas Attwood)’s settings. It’s appropriate to Covent Garden for obvious reasons, but it’s interesting how the main theme is also largely related to it.

We may have to find ways of further simplifying (e.g.) the harp part, which it needs a lot of concentration, especially the unbroken passage between L and P when the harpist can enjoy a well-earned rest. I did try to reduce the number of pedal changes a bit!

source: Mike Cole