Description
Wind Quintet Arrangement of Postlude by Elmer Samuel Hosmer
This arrangement of Postlude by American composer Elmer Samuel Hosmer (1862–1945) adapts the original composition for a flexible wind quintet ensemble, making it accessible for a variety of performances and educational settings.
Hosmer, a New England Conservatory-trained composer, organist, and educator, was known for his sacred and patriotic music. The Postlude—traditionally an instrumental closing piece in church services—has been thoughtfully arranged here to retain its reflective and uplifting character while offering wind players an engaging ensemble experience.
Scoring & Instrumentation
This arrangement is scored for the following instruments, allowing for adaptability based on available players:
Part 1: Flute, Clarinet in Eb, Clarinet in Bb
Part 2: Oboe, Clarinet in Bb
Part 3: Clarinet in Bb, English Horn, Alto Clarinet in Bb
Part 4: Horn in F, Alto Clarinet in Eb, Bassoon
Part 5: Bassoon, Bass Clarinet in Bb
Key Features:
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Difficulty Level: Medium – suitable for advanced high school, college, and community ensembles
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Performance Uses: Ideal as a concert piece, recital selection, or educational study in tone blending and expressive phrasing
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Stylistic Character: Serene and contemplative with a traditional harmonic language, reflecting Hosmer’s church music background
This arrangement revives a lesser-known work by an early American composer, offering wind players a chance to explore Hosmer’s music in a fresh and accessible format. Perfect for sacred music programs, historical repertoire studies, or chamber music performances, this piece provides both technical engagement and expressive depth.
Enhance your ensemble’s repertoire with this elegant and adaptable wind quintet arrangement of Hosmer’s Postlude.
