BBC Music Magazine

Music for pleasure

Always happy to wage subversive war against the trappings of musical pomposity, Arnold was attracted to the irreverent concerts devised by his friend. This is scored for full orchestra, organ, three vacuum cleaners, one floor polisher and four rifles (which execute the floor-cleaning contingent), and culminates in a coda of grand chords which threaten to repeat for ever, or almost. Among other Hoffnung Concert creations by Arnold were – a roguish take on Beethoven’s three overtures – and the for eater, waiter, food and orchestra.

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