Yankee Doodle dates back to the 18th-century in a number of versions which often differ in terms of words and melody. Now accepted as a 'traditional' national song, it is one of America's most recognisable 'folk-melodies' and has been used for films, television and by classical composers for decades.

This new arrangement by David Heyes is playable by bass quartet or larger forces and is dedicated to 'Mark Osborn and the Oklahoma Bass Bash'. It was arranged with a range of abilities in mind and also with the aim of sharing the melodic material between the players.

Bass 4 remains in 1st position throughout and bass 3 plays in 1st and 2nd positions only. Bass 2 moves no higher than 4th position and bass 1 includes octave harmonics and the higher positions above bass 2. There are effective and accessible musical and technical challenges for each player and the middle sections introduces the melody in a slow minor key accompanied by an icy and eery sul ponticello accompaniment. A brief cadenza featuring harmonic glissandi and col legno leads into a hoe-down version of the melody building in energy and intensity.

This arrangement is meant to be a fun addition to the beginner-intermediate bass ensemble repertoire, bringing together players of different abilities, and with a recognisable theme which should have great audience appeal.

This arrangement of 'Yankee Doodle' received its UK premiere at the Silk Mill (Frome, Somerset) at Bass-Fest 2013 on Wednesday 7 August 2013. Performed by a massed bass orchestra and conducted by David Heyes, this was popular with players and audiences alike at Bass-Fest's closing concert.