Troika is the fourth movement from the orchestral suite Lieutenant Kijé by Sergei Prokofiev. The main melody, which Prokofiev based on an old Hussar song, is one of the most infectious melodies in all of classical music. The piece is often associated with the Christmas season due to the music depicting a ride on a troika (a traditional Russian three-horse sled) and the inclusion of sleigh bells. This arrangement by Gary Spolding for four guitars or guitar orchestra (sleigh bells are optional!) is relatively easy to put together with the end result sounding more impressive than the sum of its parts.

Lasting approx. 3 minutes, the arrangement will suit an ambitious and enthusiastic group of guitarists who have reached grade 2 to 4 standard. After a shared introduction, the piece consists of a patchwork of 4 different thematic sections with a different guitar part taking the lead. Guitar 1 has the famous melody each time and has been written to be around ABRSM Grade 2 standard. The other 3 parts require a slightly higher skill level. Guitar 4 is tuned down to D but mainly for special effects with little fretting on the low string.

If you work in education, this arrangement has these useful features…
- two changes in tempo
- changes of tonality using accidentals rather than key signature
- natural harmonics
- quick p i p i right-hand work

This piece is one in a series of arrangements by Gary Spolding for beginner guitar ensembles. Each arrangement has at least one guitar part that is accessible to a player of ABRSM grade 2 standard and the other parts are never more difficult than grade 4. They can be performed as guitar quartets with one player to a part or by guitar orchestra with multiple players per part making them ideal for guitar societies or school concerts.

If you like the look of this arrangement then Bizet’s Farandole may also be of interest.

7 page score and separate parts each 3 pages
Grade 2-4
£6 as a pdf
Not available as a book
LMP 213