The Appian Way (from The Pines of Rome) - Respighi arr. Peter Graham. Brass Band

The Italian composer Respighi is most celebrated for his vividly colourful suites and symphonic poems and, in particular, his 'Roman trilogy'; 'The Fountains of Rome' (1916), 'The Pines of Rome' (1924) and 'Roman Festivals' (1928).

The Via Appia (The Appian Way) was the great military highway of classical Rome and Respighi sought to convey the awesome solemnity and splendour of the legions returning from battle in this extract from 'The Pines of Rome'.

The march along the Appian Way, led by trumpets and drums, and the emergence of dawn are brought to life in this atmospheric transcription from the orchestral score.