The galop (not gallop) was a lively society dance in 2/4 time which was particularly popular during the second half of the 19th century; the Post Horn Galop, by Herman Koenig, is probably the most famous example of this dance.

This one lacks a title; the "de concert" part was often added to dance forms (polkas, waltzes, etc.) meaning that the compositions were not actually meant to be danced to. It was written by a prolific composer and teacher for the banjo, A.H. Nassau Kennedy, born in Peterborough, Ontario, who came to England in 1894 and returned to his native Canada in 1924. He is probably best known nowadays for his "Colorado Buck Dance" which is featured as an introductory piece for the Classic Banjo style in "Banjo for Dummies" by Bill Evans.

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Comment by thereallyniceman on July 14, 2013 at 16:49

Very good indeed, Mike.

How did you tackle the Coda as it sounds smooth and fluent, not choppy at all, as the alternate fingering, along with the 4/5 note chords, can be a pig? 

Comment by Mike Moss on July 14, 2013 at 16:53

I persisted in my unwise, initial method of  playing the first G chord as a thumb glide, index middle, followed by snap, index, middle, then the same with the extended 412, rinse and repeat. I tried your suggestion of using the 3rd finger and it does work, but it felt too awkward and the tone just isn't the same. I found that my method worked at 112 bpm, it just crashes and burns at 120 bpm but that's too fast anyways, I like this speed.

Comment by thereallyniceman on July 14, 2013 at 17:53

You obviously chose the correct method as it sounds great!  Good to see you back!

Comment by Rob Murch on July 14, 2013 at 18:54

Very Nice Mike!

Comment by Mike Moss on July 14, 2013 at 18:56

Cheers Rob, I wouldn't have attempted this piece if not for your brilliant performance, which ranks -- in my opinion -- as one of the most brilliant recordings yet along with one by Tom Barriball. Thanks again.

Comment by Rob Murch on July 14, 2013 at 19:22

Bless you Mike! Galop de Concert is one of those tunes which I call a comfort tune. It falls off the fingers for me better than other ones. Regarding fingering I always approach with what feels comfortable and tend to use alot of snaps.

Comment by marc dalmasso on July 15, 2013 at 7:55

Well played Mike ; What a beautiful piece !

Comment by German David Patarroyo on July 20, 2013 at 16:44

What a cracking piece Mike, congrats!

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