MacArthur Park

Over a period of four decades Jimmy Webb (b. 1946) has written hits for a number of singers including Glen Campbell, Art Garfunkel, Frank Sinatra, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and Linda Ronstadt. His songs are often epic in character and include By theTime I Get to Phoenix; Up, Up and Away; Didn’t We; Wichita Lineman and Galveston. MacArthur Park (1968) was unlike anything that had gone before it. Running at over 7 minutes, it is 2 or 3 times the length of most pop songs and has an extendedorchestral interlude. Richard Harris’ seminal recording topped the music charts in Europe, while peaking at number two on the U.S. charts. Philip Sparke has made this excellent arrangement for concert band, which is sure to become a regular featureon your concert program.