One of Arnold's numerous compositions for non-professional performers, the Little Suite No. 1 for band was commissioned by the Scottish Amateur Music Association for the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland, which gave the work its first performance, under Bryden Thomson's direction, at the Aberdeen High School for Girls in July 1963. The opening prelude is a fanfare in dotted rhythm, with support from the side drum and tuned percussion. The flowing siciliano features a sweet, melancholy tune, first presented by the cornet, with gentle accompaniment from the maracas. The concluding rondo opens impressively with a loud unison statement of the main theme by the entire band, punctuated by cymbal crashes. The melody is worked over by various instruments and the movement builds to an exciting climax.

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