If you are a conductor, band director, or serious instrumentalist, you have likely encountered the search for the This piece is one of the most beloved standards of the modern concert band repertoire. Its haunting melody, syncopated rhythms, and cinematic flair make it a perennial favorite for festivals, pops concerts, and encores.
Dmitri Shostakovich, a Russian composer, wrote his Waltz No. 2 in 1950 as part of a series of waltzes for a film soundtrack. The piece was originally titled "Waltz No. 2 (from the Suite for Variety Orchestra)" and was intended to be a lighthearted, entertaining work. However, Shostakovich's unique blend of humor, irony, and musical expertise elevated the waltz to a new level, making it a beloved classic. waltz no 2 by dmitri shostakovich arr james curnow pdf link
: The piece achieved massive global fame after being featured prominently in Stanley Kubrick’s final film, Eyes Wide Shut (1999). This renewed interest sparked a demand for accessible wind band arrangements. The James Curnow Adaptation If you are a conductor, band director, or
The piece typically lasts around 3:45 minutes, making it a perfect, concise programming piece. Key Musical Elements in the Curnow Arrangement 2 in 1950 as part of a series
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James Curnow’s arrangement makes this beautiful piece accessible to concert bands worldwide, providing an opportunity for musicians to engage with one of Shostakovich’s most accessible and charming works.