Piccolo, 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, Cor anglais, 2 Clarinets in Bb, Bass clarinet, 2 Bassoons; 4 Horns in F, 3 Trumpets in Bb, 3 Trombones, Tuba; Timpani [4], Precussion [3] (Tubular bells, Triangle, Side drum, Bass drum, Cymbals, Suspended cymbal, Gong, Glockenspiel), Harp; Strings (Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Double Bass). The AIR FOR ORCHESTRA was composed in Mallorca in October 2006. Originally scored for string orchestra (and titled AIR FOR STRINGS), I decided some months later also to score it for full symphony orchestra, retaining much of the original string writing but adding solos for the woodwind, trumpets and horns, and using the brass section as a sonorous cushion in both tranquil and more powerful sections. Whilst the original string version has an emotional intensity particular to the strings, the orchestral version adds a greater richness and depth of colour, utilising the variety and power inherent in a full symphony orchestra. The piece is a heartfelt love song in the form of a long arching lament built around a simple and passionate theme woven through the orchestra. The main theme is first stated on a solo horn and taken up by the violas with woodwind interjections throughout. It passes through to trumpet and violins and then cellos before slowly building towards a climactic statement about half way through involving the whole orchestra. The music then subsides leaving the theme exposed in a more relaxed setting before arriving at its conclusion in quiet, calm suspension. This version for large orchestra was made for Mark Andrew James and the Sussex Symphony Orchestra, and is dedicated in love to my partner Cy and to my dear friend Fran, on the occasion of turning 40. (Paul Carr). Duration 10 minutes. A PACK comprises one full score and strings 4/4/3/4/2. Format: Part (orch/band). Classification: Orchestral; Band; Large E. Media: Printed music.