Gloucestershire Wassail

Gloucestershire Wassail is associated with an English custom that was observed at Christmas time. A large, decorated bowl of spiced ale was hoisted through town by a group of carolers—Yule serenaders—in a tradition that has its roots in the beggars of the Middle Ages and Pagan festivals. The tune is therefore associated with Christmas revelry and joy. “Gloucestershire Wassail” probably dates from the 18th century, and is considered a traditional English tune. This arrangement for saxophone quartet (SATBar), rather than favoring a soprano solo with accompaniment, strives to include all the players in the music making, particularly by distributing the melodic material. In addition, all dynamics and articulations should be taken as suggestions only, as performers are encouraged to make their own interpretations.