Last year I asked Forsythe's in Manchester, probably the best music shop in the North, if they could order some sheet music for me. Unfortunately, after an extensive search of their supplier catalogues, we concluded that there, quite simply, is very little piano music from the operas available. There are plenty of vocal scores and full orchestra scores but these aren't ideal when just playing the piano for pleasure.
So, I was delighted when The Bookcase came up trumps and, deep in the basement of the shop, I discovered a large haul of G&S music from the 1920s. There is always huge amount of sheet music to browse through and I usually disappear into the bowels of the shop for at least 30 minutes! This time I was really pleased with the treasures I unearthed.
I now have music selections from the operas including The Mikado, The Gondoliers, HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance and Patience. It's wonderful to have such a selection to play, and to sing along to when no one is listening!
So, I'm happily playing my way through the scores and having a grand old time! And, more importantly, getting in the mood for the Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in Buxton later in the summer!