BrookWright Music Releases Evocative Flugel Horn Solo

New arrangement of traditional English melody offers lyrical interlude for concert programs.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:00pm

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BrookWright Music has released a new arrangement of the classic 17th-century English melody "Drink to Me Only" for flugel horn solo and brass band. Originally arranged for the New York Staff Band in 1991, the evocative setting blends secular and sacred traditions, showcasing warm, melodic lines perfectly suited to the flugel horn.

Why it matters

This new arrangement provides concert bands and soloists with a lyrical, deeply expressive showcase piece that can offer a reflective interlude within a larger program. The piece draws on both traditional English and Salvation Army musical heritage, appealing to a wide range of audiences.

The details

The melody, famously attributed to Colonel R. Mellish (1777-1817), is inspired by the classic 17th-century poem by Ben Johnson. Within Salvation Army tradition, the tune is paired with the sacred lyrics of William Drake Pennick. This setting by BrookWright Music highlights the warm, melodic lines of the flugel horn, building on a 1992 recording by the New York Staff Band.

  • The arrangement was originally created for the New York Staff Band in 1991.
  • The New York Staff Band featured this arrangement on their 1992 recording, 'Under Three Flags'.

The players

BrookWright Music

A music publishing company that specializes in creating new arrangements and compositions for brass bands and soloists.

New York Staff Band

A renowned Salvation Army brass band based in New York City that has recorded and performed this arrangement.

Colonel R. Mellish

The 18th-century English military officer credited with composing the original melody that inspired this arrangement.

Ben Jonson

The 17th-century English poet who wrote the classic poem that the melody is based on.

William Drake Pennick

The Salvation Army songwriter who paired sacred lyrics with the traditional English melody.

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The takeaway

This new arrangement from BrookWright Music provides concert bands and soloists with a versatile piece that can serve as a reflective, lyrical interlude within a larger program, drawing on both traditional English and Salvation Army musical heritage.