Gerald Finzi’s orchestration of Let Us Garlands Bring, Op. 18, enhances the song cycle’s lyrical beauty with a richer, more expansive texture. Originally composed for baritone and piano, Finzi later arranged it for baritone and string orchestra, allowing for a more atmospheric and deeply expressive interpretation of Shakespeare’s texts. The orchestral version retains the intimate character of the original but adds a greater sense of depth and warmth through the lush string writing.

The orchestration highlights Finzi’s sensitivity to vocal lines, ensuring that the baritone remains at the forefront while the strings provide a supportive yet independent role. The interplay between soloist and orchestra enhances the emotional nuances of each song, from the dark, haunting quality of Come Away, Death to the buoyant, dance-like rhythms of It Was a Lover and His Lass. The string harmonies and counter-melodies subtly color the text, adding layers of expressiveness that elevate the cycle’s impact.

This version of Let Us Garlands Bring has become a favorite among performers and audiences, praised for its seamless blend of voice and orchestra. It exemplifies Finzi’s gift for orchestration—his ability to maintain clarity and intimacy while enriching the harmonic and emotional palette. The work remains an important contribution to English art song, demonstrating Finzi’s deep understanding of both Shakespearean poetry and the expressive potential of the orchestra.