Unlocking the Masterpiece: A Guide to Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2 (Arr. James Curnow)

Few pieces of classical music have permeated pop culture quite like Dmitri Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2. Originally from his Suite for Variety Orchestra, this piece—often erroneously attributed to his Jazz Suites—captures a unique blend of sarcasm, elegance, and cinematic grandeur.

Conclusion

The James Curnow arrangement of Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2 is a staple of the wind band repertoire for a reason. It bridges the gap between serious classical repertoire and accessible entertainment music. By securing legal sheet music and focusing on the stylistic nuances Curnow has notated, your ensemble can deliver a performance that is both educational and electrifying.

For many musicians, the gateway to this piece is the widely performed arrangement by James Curnow

Pro Tip: A 100% free, public domain PDF link for this specific arrangement does not legally exist. Sharing a PDF without paying for the license violates copyright law and harms the marching band/concert band publishing industry.

Performance and Reception