The precise origins of the folk song "When the Saints Go Marching In" or "The Saints" is unknown but it is believed to originate from Belgium and is thought to have been used originally as a hymn tune.

 

Since the late 19th Century, it has become a jazz standard of the American song-book and has been performed and recorded by a wide variety of artists. From the great jazz performers Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald through to the silver screen by Judy Garland and to the popular music scene by performers such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and more recently Bruce Springsteen.

 

The melodies biggest advocate has to be the thousands of world-wide jazz bands playing in the New Orleans style, which is as popular today as it was at its inception.

 

It is in this New Orleans style that Paul Duffy has arranged this ageless classic for soprano cornet and brass band. A swinging solo line, which gives you the opportunity to show off your improvisational skills, is accompanied by approachable ensemble writing which captures the flavour and excitement of carnival time.