The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Op. 34
by Benjamin Britten
Originally composed to accompany the 1946 educational documentary film Instruments of the Orchestra, this set of variations and fugue on a theme of Purcell has become one of the most beloved orchestral showpieces of the 20th century. Each variation is assigned to a different instrumental family or section, proceeding from woodwinds through brass, strings, and percussion, before all sections are reunited in a grand fugue. The theme itself is taken from the Rondeau of Purcell's Abdelazer (1695). Despite its "educational" origin, the piece demands virtuoso playing from every player.
Editions
Boosey & Hawkes
Britten estate, 1947
Original publication, the standard edition. Includes optional narrative text by Montagu Slater.
Eulenburg
Graham Elliott, 2003
Study score with critical commentary on Purcell's theme and Britten's treatment of each orchestral section.