Mockbeggar Variations - ARI004 | Musica

This work was composed in 1991 to a commission from Berkshire County Music Service, whose headquarters were then in Mockbeggar House - hence the title. A short introduction leads to the theme, which is split between several different instruments and the five variations that follow expose all sections of the wind orchestra. Unlike Gallimaufry, Illyrian Dances, and S.P.Q.R. by the same composer, Mockbeggar Variations has no thematic or literary connection with the Royal Shakespeare Company. The first performance took place at the BASBWE Conference at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester on 20th July 1991, under the direction of Robert Roscoe.