Anton Rubinstein (1829-1894) was a Russian pianist, composer and conductor. His lyric and romantic output included six symphonies and quite a few operas. In 1862 he founded the conservatory of St. Petersburg, where amongst others, Pyotr Illyitch Tchaikovsky studied. Most of Rubinstein's music is underrated and not as well-known as that of many of his contemporaries. However, his "Melody in F", for piano, is quite popular and has been arranged for all sorts of instruments and ensembles. Willy Houtvast has made a new transcription for concert band; the percussion parts are optional.