I composed Hymnus ante Somnus (translated, Hymn before Sleep), to a text by Prudentius, for mixed chorus in 2002. It was my first work for choir - indeed my first real vocal work of any kind. The work is one of my simplest (and favourite) expressions, indebted as it is to Renaissance and Mediaeval music - and later, when I came to compose something for saxophone quartet in 2006 I immediately thought to do a setting of this work which I titled simply, Song.

Versions for clarinet and brass quartets soon followed - and then nothing until last year, when I composed a piano four hands version for my wife, as an anniversary gift. This new, and final, version for wind band draws from all the previous versions, as well as taking the opportunity to feature the instruments who had so far 'missed out' - the flutes and percussion. Hymnus ante Somnus in it's original form is dedicated to my former teacher, mentor and friend, Don Kay - and I again dedicate this work to Don.

Instrumentation: Piccolo, 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, 2 Bassoons, 3 Clarinets, Bass Clarinet, Contra-alto Eb Clarinet, 2 Alto Saxophones, Tenor Saxophones, Baritone Saxophone, 3 Trumpets in Bb, 4 Horns, 2 Trombones, Bass Trombones, Euphonium, Tuba, Double Bass, Piano, Timpani, 4 Percussionists.

Percussion: Glockenspiel, Crotales, Vibraphone, Marimba, Chimes, Triangle, Suspended Cymbal

If you'd like to arrange a hire of this product, please enquire at publishing@tso.com.au.