Encourage the low brass (trombones and tuba) to play the "oom-pah" figure with a slightly harsh, marcato articulation. The piece should feel like a drunken, elegant stumble—not a pristine Viennese waltz.
Because direct links expire or change, here is the specific search string to use on any music retailer:
"Waltz No. 2 Shostakovich Curnow Hal Leonard"
Look for the "Digital" or "ePrint" badge. Do not click on "Printed" unless you want physical shipping.
Dmitri Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2 (originally from his Suite for Variety Orchestra) has evolved from a mid-century Soviet film score into one of the most recognizable melodies in the world. Its hauntingly playful tune is a staple for ensembles of all levels, but for many educators and student musicians, the James Curnow arrangement is the definitive version for concert bands. The History Behind the Melody
Contrary to popular belief, Waltz No. 2 was not part of Shostakovich's "lost" Suite for Jazz Orchestra No. 2. It actually comes from the Suite for Variety Stage Orchestra, composed around 1956. The piece gained massive international fame after being featured in Stanley Kubrick’s final film, Eyes Wide Shut, and popularized by violinist André Rieu. The James Curnow Arrangement
James Curnow’s adaptation is specifically designed for young concert bands (Grade 3), making this complex Russian masterpiece accessible to school-aged ensembles. Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Waltz No. 2 (from Suite for Variety Stage Orchestra) waltz no 2 by dmitri shostakovich arr james curnow pdf link
Dmitri Shostakovich’s Waltz No. 2 , famously featured in films like Eyes Wide Shut
, is a quintessential 20th-century waltz known for its haunting yet playful melody. Originally part of his Suite for Variety Orchestra , this specific arrangement by James Curnow
is widely used by concert bands for its accessible "Grade 3" level. Sheet Music Direct Sheet Music & PDF Links
You can find the score and individual parts for this arrangement at the following retailers: Sheet Music Plus
: Provides digital PDF downloads for the full score and parts. Sheet Music Direct
: Offers the James Curnow arrangement for concert band as digital sheet music. Hal Leonard Encourage the low brass (trombones and tuba) to
: The official publisher (G. Schirmer) provides both physical scores and digital information. J.W. Pepper : A reliable source for concert band sets and scores. Sheet Music Plus Social Media Post Draft
🎶 Bringing a touch of Soviet elegance to the stage! 🎷 Check out James Curnow's fantastic arrangement of Shostakovich’s "Waltz No. 2." It perfectly captures the dark, lyrical charm of the original—perfect for intermediate concert bands.
Have you played this arrangement before? Let us know your favorite part in the comments! 👇
#Shostakovich #WaltzNo2 #ConcertBand #SheetMusic #MusicEducation #JamesCurnow
The sheet music for Waltz No. 2 Dmitri Shostakovich , arranged by James Curnow
, is a Grade 3 adaptation for young concert bands. It is widely available for digital download as a PDF through official retailers. Pender's Digital Official Digital Score & Parts "Waltz No
You can find the complete full score and individual instrumental parts at the following locations: Full Score : Available for instant download at Sheet Music Plus Sheet Music Direct Ensemble Package Pender’s Music Co. offers the digitally downloaded full score and band parts. Individual Parts : Specific parts like can be previewed or purchased individually. Pender's Digital Arrangement Details
Waltz No. 2 (from Suite For Variety Stage Orchestra) - Full Score
I can’t provide a direct PDF link or copy of the copyrighted score for Waltz No. 2 by Dmitri Shostakovich, arranged by James Curnow. However, here’s a guide to legally obtaining it:
Before diving into the arrangement, it is important to understand the source material. Composed by Dmitri Shostakovich in the mid-20th century, the waltz is famous for its distinct "accordion-like" melody in the woodwinds and its haunting, minor-key trumpet solos.
The piece walks a fine line between a romantic dance and a satirical mockery of the waltz form. It is this emotional duality—sweet yet slightly sinister—that makes it a compelling programming choice for high school and college ensembles.