Danse Macabre Variations is a thrilling and highly effective brass band feature based on Saint-Saëns’ iconic Danse Macabre. Packed with drama, colour, and excitement, it builds to a spectacular antiphonal cornet finish and has proved popular with bands and audiences alike around the world.
$80.00
Danse Macabre Variations is a thrilling brass band feature based on Saint‑Saëns’ Danse Macabre. Commissioned by Hepworth Brass Band (cond. Ian Porthouse), it turns the eerie dance into a high‑impact showpiece, packed with drama, colour, and momentum.
Originally featuring electric violin soloist Bianca Blezzard, the work has since been adapted for brass band alone and recorded by the Fairey Brass Band on Nefarious. It’s now played by bands around the world.
The music opens with a dark, atmospheric introduction before launching into a series of vivid variations. Expect driving rhythms, sharp dynamic contrasts, and bold writing across the whole band, all while keeping Saint‑Saëns’ haunting melody at the heart of the piece.
It builds to a clear crowd‑pleasing climax: an antiphonal cornet motif where the cornets split to positions either side of the band, creating a dramatic stereo effect that always lands well with audiences.
Ideal as a concert feature, second‑half opener, or entertainment contest highlight, Danse Macabre Variations gives advanced 2nd Section/B Grade to Championship/Elite bands a genuine showstopper with a strong musical idea and a memorable ending.
