Description

**String Quartet/Quintet Arrangement of 7 Shakespeare Songs by George Alexander Macfarren**

This elegant arrangement brings George Alexander Macfarren’s 7 Shakespeare Songs to life for a string quartet or quintet, offering a fresh interpretation of these Romantic-era choral works. Scored for the following instruments:

Violin 1
Violin 2
Viola
Violoncello
Contrabass (optional for quintet)

The arrangement retains the lyrical beauty and expressive depth of Macfarren’s original settings while adapting them seamlessly for strings. Each movement captures the essence of Shakespeare’s poetry, from the pastoral charm of “When icicles hang by the wall” to the melancholic grace of “Blow, blow thou winter wind.”

Level of Difficulty: Medium

This arrangement is accessible to intermediate-level ensembles, with idiomatic writing that highlights the strengths of each instrument. The contrapuntal textures and rich harmonies make it an engaging piece for performers and audiences alike.

Potential Uses:

A standout concert piece for chamber ensembles
A refined addition to a Shakespeare-themed program

About the Composer:

Sir George Alexander Macfarren (1813–1887) was a prominent English composer and musicologist of the Romantic period. Despite losing his eyesight in 1860, he continued composing with the help of an amanuensis, leaving behind a significant body of work. Knighted in 1883, Macfarren was celebrated for his dedication to music and his contributions to English art song. His 7 Shakespeare Songs (published 1851–1864) remain a testament to his skill in setting Shakespeare’s texts with expressive nuance.

This arrangement offers string players a chance to explore Macfarren’s underappreciated music in a new and captivating format.