Victory in Europe Day March

for Concert/Wind Band

Composed by Keith Terrett

Victory in Europe Day March is a vibrant and uplifting concert march celebrating Victory in Europe (VE) Day, marking the end of the Second World War in Europe on 8 May 1945. Written in the great symphonic band tradition, the work reflects the joy, relief, and hope experienced across Europe as peace was finally restored.

Following a brilliant fanfare opening, the march unfolds through spirited themes, memorable melodies, and a broad, lyrical trio before building to a thrilling and triumphant finale. Colourful woodwind writing, powerful brass scoring, and dynamic percussion combine to create a concert march that is both exciting to perform and inspiring to hear.

Although celebrating victory, the music also pays tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the Allied servicemen and women whose determination secured the freedom of future generations. The result is a work that balances celebration with dignity and remembrance.

Suitable for school, community, military, university, and professional wind bands, Victory in Europe Day March is an excellent choice for concerts, commemorative events, civic ceremonies, patriotic celebrations, and remembrance programmes.

Duration: Approximately 4–5 minutes.

Ideal for:

• VE Day celebrations
• Remembrance concerts
• Military and civic ceremonies
• Patriotic festivals
• Concert band festivals
• Community celebrations

About the Composer

Keith Terrett is a British composer, arranger, conductor, and anthemologist whose music is performed throughout the world. His catalogue includes original works for concert band, brass band, orchestra, choir, chamber ensembles, and over 500 arrangements of national anthems and traditional melodies.

His original marches include:

• The Heroes of Telemark (based on songs from West Telemark)
• Paddy's March (Irish melodies)
• American Marching Songs
• The Kokoda Trail March (based on Papua New Guinea melodies)
• Queen of Hearts (Ceremonial Slow March)
• El Matador (Paso Doble), recorded by The Fairey's Band and broadcast on BBC Radio 2
• Night Flight to Barcelona (Paso Doble)
• The Lost Patrol, composed in McLeod Ganj in the Indian Himalayas
• Class of '88, published by Echelon Music Publishers (USA)
• D-Day March
• Victory in Europe Day March

Keywords: Concert Band, Wind Band, VE Day, Victory in Europe Day, Concert March, Military March, Patriotic Music, Remembrance, Ceremonial Music, World War II, Operation Overlord, Memorial Concert, Keith Terrett.