This suite was written in August 1940 arranged from a previous work: Concerto Grosso in F for orchestra in the style of Handel. Material from the Suite was subsequently arranged as a Concerto Grosso for 4 bassoons and strings. The composer indicated that it could be played as 3 bassoons and contrabassoon with suitable changes in the parts. This edition gives both versions.

We are grateful to the composer's daughter, Sally Kirby, for permission to publish this edition.