SKU: CF.PL1056

ISBN 9781491153390. UPC: 680160910892. Transcribed by Franz Liszt.

Introduction It is true that Schubert himself is somewhat to blame for the very unsatisfactory manner in which his admirable piano pieces are treated. He was too immoderately productive, wrote incessantly, mixing insignificant with important things, grand things with mediocre work, paid no heed to criticism, and always soared on his wings. Like a bird in the air, he lived in music and sang in angelic fashion. --Franz Liszt, letter to Dr. S. Lebert (1868) Of those compositions that greatly interest me, there are only Chopin's and yours. --Franz Liszt, letter to Robert Schumann (1838) She [Clara Schumann] was astounded at hearing me. Her compositions are really very remarkable, especially for a woman. There is a hundred times more creativity and real feeling in them than in all the past and present fantasias by Thalberg. --Franz Liszt, letter to Marie d'Agoult (1838) Chretien Urhan (1790-1845) was a Belgian-born violinist, organist and composer who flourished in the musical life of Paris in the early nineteenth century. According to various accounts, he was deeply religious, harshly ascetic and wildly eccentric, though revered by many important and influential members of the Parisian musical community. Regrettably, history has forgotten Urhan's many musical achievements, the most important of which was arguably his pioneering work in promoting the music of Franz Schubert. He devoted much of his energies to championing Schubert's music, which at the time was unknown outside of Vienna. Undoubtedly, Urhan was responsible for stimulating this enthusiasm in Franz Liszt; Liszt regularly heard Urhan's organ playing in the St.-Vincent-de-Paul church in Paris, and the two became personal acquaintances. At eighteen years of age, Liszt was on the verge of establishing himself as the foremost pianist in Europe, and this awakening to Schubert's music would prove to be a profound experience. Liszt's first travels outside of his native provincial Hungary were to Vienna in 1821-1823, where his father enrolled him in studies with Carl Czerny (piano) and Antonio Salieri (music theory). Both men had important involvements with Schubert; Czerny (like Urhan) as performer and advocate of Schubert's music and Salieri as his theory and composition teacher from 1813-1817. Curiously, Liszt and Schubert never met personally, despite their geographical proximity in Vienna during these years. Inevitably, legends later arose that the two had been personal acquaintances, although Liszt would dismiss these as fallacious: I never knew Schubert personally, he was once quoted as saying. Liszt's initial exposure to Schubert's music was the Lieder, what Urhan prized most of all. He accompanied the tenor Benedict Randhartinger in numerous performances of Schubert's Lieder and then, perhaps realizing that he could benefit the composer more on his own terms, transcribed a number of the Lieder for piano solo. Many of these transcriptions he would perform himself on concert tour during the so-called Glanzzeit, or time of splendor from 1839-1847. This publicity did much to promote reception of Schubert's music throughout Europe. Once Liszt retired from the concert stage and settled in Weimar as a conductor in the 1840s, he continued to perform Schubert's orchestral music, his Symphony No. 9 being a particular favorite, and is credited with giving the world premiere performance of Schubert's opera Alfonso und Estrella in 1854. At this time, he contemplated writing a biography of the composer, which regrettably remained uncompleted. Liszt's devotion to Schubert would never waver. Liszt's relationship with Robert and Clara Schumann was far different and far more complicated; by contrast, they were all personal acquaintances. What began as a relationship of mutual respect and admiration soon deteriorated into one of jealousy and hostility, particularly on the Schumann's part. Liszt's initial contact with Robert's music happened long before they had met personally, when Liszt published an analysis of Schumann's piano music for the Gazette musicale in 1837, a gesture that earned Robert's deep appreciation. In the following year Clara met Liszt during a concert tour in Vienna and presented him with more of Schumann's piano music. Clara and her father Friedrich Wieck, who accompanied Clara on her concert tours, were quite taken by Liszt: We have heard Liszt. He can be compared to no other player...he arouses fright and astonishment. His appearance at the piano is indescribable. He is an original...he is absorbed by the piano. Liszt, too, was impressed with Clara--at first the energy, intelligence and accuracy of her piano playing and later her compositions--to the extent that he dedicated to her the 1838 version of his Etudes d'execution transcendante d'apres Paganini. Liszt had a closer personal relationship with Clara than with Robert until the two men finally met in 1840. Schumann was astounded by Liszt's piano playing. He wrote to Clara that Liszt had played like a god and had inspired indescribable furor of applause. His review of Liszt even included a heroic personification with Napoleon. In Leipzig, Schumann was deeply impressed with Liszt's interpretations of his Noveletten, Op. 21 and Fantasy in C Major, Op. 17 (dedicated to Liszt), enthusiastically observing that, I feel as if I had known you twenty years. Yet a variety of events followed that diminished Liszt's glory in the eyes of the Schumanns. They became critical of the cult-like atmosphere that arose around his recitals, or Lisztomania as it came to be called; conceivably, this could be attributed to professional jealousy. Clara, in particular, came to loathe Liszt, noting in a letter to Joseph Joachim, I despise Liszt from the depths of my soul. She recorded a stunning diary entry a day after Liszt's death, in which she noted, He was an eminent keyboard virtuoso, but a dangerous example for the young...As a composer he was terrible. By contrast, Liszt did not share in these negative sentiments; no evidence suggests that he had any ill-regard for the Schumanns. In Weimar, he did much to promote Schumann's music, conducting performances of his Scenes from Faust and Manfred, during a time in which few orchestras expressed interest, and premiered his opera Genoveva. He later arranged a benefit concert for Clara following Robert's death, featuring Clara as soloist in Robert's Piano Concerto, an event that must have been exhilarating to witness. Regardless, her opinion of him would never change, despite his repeated gestures of courtesy and respect. Liszt's relationship with Schubert was a spiritual one, with music being the one and only link between the two men. That with the Schumanns was personal, with music influenced by a hero worship that would aggravate the relationship over time. Nonetheless, Liszt would remain devoted to and enthusiastic for the music and achievements of these composers. He would be a vital force in disseminating their music to a wider audience, as he would be with many other composers throughout his career. His primary means for accomplishing this was the piano transcription. Liszt and the Transcription Transcription versus Paraphrase Transcription and paraphrase were popular terms in nineteenth-century music, although certainly not unique to this period. Musicians understood that there were clear distinctions between these two terms, but as is often the case these distinctions could be blurred. Transcription, literally writing over, entails reworking or adapting a piece of music for a performance medium different from that of its original; arrangement is a possible synonym. Adapting is a key part of this process, for the success of a transcription relies on the transcriber's ability to adapt the piece to the different medium. As a result, the pre-existing material is generally kept intact, recognizable and intelligible; it is strict, literal, objective. Contextual meaning is maintained in the process, as are elements of style and form. Paraphrase, by contrast, implies restating something in a different manner, as in a rewording of a document for reasons of clarity. In nineteenth-century music, paraphrasing indicated elaborating a piece for purposes of expressive virtuosity, often as a vehicle for showmanship. Variation is an important element, for the source material may be varied as much as the paraphraser's imagination will allow; its purpose is metamorphosis. Transcription is adapting and arranging; paraphrasing is transforming and reworking. Transcription preserves the style of the original; paraphrase absorbs the original into a different style. Transcription highlights the original composer; paraphrase highlights the paraphraser. Approximately half of Liszt's compositional output falls under the category of transcription and paraphrase; it is noteworthy that he never used the term arrangement. Much of his early compositional activities were transcriptions and paraphrases of works of other composers, such as the symphonies of Beethoven and Berlioz, vocal music by Schubert, and operas by Donizetti and Bellini. It is conceivable that he focused so intently on work of this nature early in his career as a means to perfect his compositional technique, although transcription and paraphrase continued well after the technique had been mastered; this might explain why he drastically revised and rewrote many of his original compositions from the 1830s (such as the Transcendental Etudes and Paganini Etudes) in the 1850s. Charles Rosen, a sympathetic interpreter of Liszt's piano works, observes, The new revisions of the Transcendental Etudes are not revisions but concert paraphrases of the old, and their art lies in the technique of transformation. The Paganini etudes are piano transcriptions of violin etudes, and the Transcendental Etudes are piano transcriptions of piano etudes. The principles are the same. He concludes by noting, Paraphrase has shaded off into composition...Composition and paraphrase were not identical for him, but they were so closely interwoven that separation is impossible. The significance of transcription and paraphrase for Liszt the composer cannot be overstated, and the mutual influence of each needs to be better understood. Undoubtedly, Liszt the composer as we know him today would be far different had he not devoted so much of his career to transcribing and paraphrasing the music of others. He was perhaps one of the first composers to contend that transcription and paraphrase could be genuine art forms on equal par with original pieces; he even claimed to be the first to use these two terms to describe these classes of arrangements. Despite the success that Liszt achieved with this type of work, others viewed it with circumspection and criticism. Robert Schumann, although deeply impressed with Liszt's keyboard virtuosity, was harsh in his criticisms of the transcriptions. Schumann interpreted them as indicators that Liszt's virtuosity had hindered his compositional development and suggested that Liszt transcribed the music of others to compensate for his own compositional deficiencies. Nonetheless, Liszt's piano transcriptions, what he sometimes called partitions de piano (or piano scores), were instrumental in promoting composers whose music was unknown at the time or inaccessible in areas outside of major European capitals, areas that Liszt willingly toured during his Glanzzeit. To this end, the transcriptions had to be literal arrangements for the piano; a Beethoven symphony could not be introduced to an unknowing audience if its music had been subjected to imaginative elaborations and variations. The same would be true of the 1833 transcription of Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique (composed only three years earlier), the astonishingly novel content of which would necessitate a literal and intelligible rendering. Opera, usually more popular and accessible for the general public, was a different matter, and in this realm Liszt could paraphrase the original and manipulate it as his imagination would allow without jeopardizing its reception; hence, the paraphrases on the operas of Bellini, Donizetti, Mozart, Meyerbeer and Verdi. Reminiscence was another term coined by Liszt for the opera paraphrases, as if the composer were reminiscing at the keyboard following a memorable evening at the opera. Illustration (reserved on two occasions for Meyerbeer) and fantasy were additional terms. The operas of Wagner were exceptions. His music was less suited to paraphrase due to its general lack of familiarity at the time. Transcription of Wagner's music was thus obligatory, as it was of Beethoven's and Berlioz's music; perhaps the composer himself insisted on this approach. Liszt's Lieder Transcriptions Liszt's initial encounters with Schubert's music, as mentioned previously, were with the Lieder. His first transcription of a Schubert Lied was Die Rose in 1833, followed by Lob der Tranen in 1837. Thirty-nine additional transcriptions appeared at a rapid pace over the following three years, and in 1846, the Schubert Lieder transcriptions would conclude, by which point he had completed fifty-eight, the most of any composer. Critical response to these transcriptions was highly favorable--aside from the view held by Schumann--particularly when Liszt himself played these pieces in concert. Some were published immediately by Anton Diabelli, famous for the theme that inspired Beethoven's variations. Others were published by the Viennese publisher Tobias Haslinger (one of Beethoven's and Schubert's publishers in the 1820s), who sold his reserves so quickly that he would repeatedly plead for more. However, Liszt's enthusiasm for work of this nature soon became exhausted, as he noted in a letter of 1839 to the publisher Breitkopf und Hartel: That good Haslinger overwhelms me with Schubert. I have just sent him twenty-four new songs (Schwanengesang and Winterreise), and for the moment I am rather tired of this work. Haslinger was justified in his demands, for the Schubert transcriptions were received with great enthusiasm. One Gottfried Wilhelm Fink, then editor of the Allgemeine musikalische Zeitung, observed of these transcriptions: Nothing in recent memory has caused such sensation and enjoyment in both pianists and audiences as these arrangements...The demand for them has in no way been satisfied; and it will not be until these arrangements are seen on pianos everywhere. They have indeed made quite a splash. Eduard Hanslick, never a sympathetic critic of Liszt's music, acknowledged thirty years after the fact that, Liszt's transcriptions of Schubert Lieder were epoch-making. There was hardly a concert in which Liszt did not have to play one or two of them--even when they were not listed on the program. These transcriptions quickly became some of his most sough-after pieces, despite their extreme technical demands. Leading pianists of the day, such as Clara Wieck and Sigismond Thalberg, incorporated them into their concert programs immediately upon publication. Moreover, the transcriptions would serve as inspirations for other composers, such as Stephen Heller, Cesar Franck and later Leopold Godowsky, all of whom produced their own transcriptions of Schubert's Lieder. Liszt would transcribe the Lieder of other composers as well, including those by Mendelssohn, Chopin, Anton Rubinstein and even himself. Robert Schumann, of course, would not be ignored. The first transcription of a Schumann Lied was the celebrated Widmung from Myrten in 1848, the only Schumann transcription that Liszt completed during the composer's lifetime. (Regrettably, there is no evidence of Schumann's regard of this transcription, or even if he was aware of it.) From the years 1848-1881, Liszt transcribed twelve of Robert Schumann's Lieder (including one orchestral Lied) and three of Clara (one from each of her three published Lieder cycles); he would transcribe no other works of these two composers. The Schumann Lieder transcriptions, contrary to those of Schubert, are literal arrangements, posing, in general, far fewer demands on the pianist's technique. They are comparatively less imaginative in their treatment of the original material. Additionally, they seem to have been less valued in their day than the Schubert transcriptions, and it is noteworthy that none of the Schumann transcriptions bear dedications, as most of the Schubert transcriptions do. The greatest challenge posed by Lieder transcriptions, regardless of the composer or the nature of the transcription, was to combine the vocal and piano parts of the original such that the character of each would be preserved, a challenge unique to this form of transcription. Each part had to be intact and aurally recognizable, the vocal line in particular. Complications could be manifold in a Lied that featured dissimilar parts, such as Schubert's Auf dem Wasser zu singen, whose piano accompaniment depicts the rocking of the boat on the shimmering waves while the vocal line reflects on the passing of time. Similar complications would be encountered in Gretchen am Spinnrade, in which the ubiquitous sixteenth-note pattern in the piano's right hand epitomizes the ever-turning spinning wheel over which the soprano voice expresses feelings of longing and heartache. The resulting transcriptions for solo piano would place exceptional demands on the pianist. The complications would be far less imposing in instances in which voice and piano were less differentiated, as in many of Schumann's Lieder that Liszt transcribed. The piano parts in these Lieder are true accompaniments for the voice, providing harmonic foundation and rhythmic support by doubling the vocal line throughout. The transcriptions, thus, are strict and literal, with far fewer demands on both pianist and transcriber. In all of Liszt's Lieder transcriptions, regardless of the way in which the two parts are combined, the melody (i.e. the vocal line) is invariably the focal point; the melody should sing on the piano, as if it were the voice. The piano part, although integral to contributing to the character of the music, is designed to function as accompaniment. A singing melody was a crucial objective in nineteenth-century piano performance, which in part might explain the zeal in transcribing and paraphrasing vocal music for the piano. Friedrich Wieck, father and teacher of Clara Schumann, stressed this point repeatedly in his 1853 treatise Clavier und Gesang (Piano and Song): When I speak in general of singing, I refer to that species of singing which is a form of beauty, and which is a foundation for the most refined and most perfect interpretation of music; and, above all things, I consider the culture of beautiful tones the basis for the finest possible touch on the piano. In many respects, the piano and singing should explain and supplement each other. They should mutually assist in expressing the sublime and the noble, in forms of unclouded beauty. Much of Liszt's piano music should be interpreted with this concept in mind, the Lieder transcriptions and opera paraphrases, in particular. To this end, Liszt provided numerous written instructions to the performer to emphasize the vocal line in performance, with Italian directives such as un poco marcato il canto, accentuato assai il canto and ben pronunziato il canto. Repeated indications of cantando,singend and espressivo il canto stress the significance of the singing tone. As an additional means of achieving this and providing the performer with access to the poetry, Liszt insisted, at what must have been a publishing novelty at the time, on printing the words of the Lied in the music itself. Haslinger, seemingly oblivious to Liszt's intent, initially printed the poems of the early Schubert transcriptions separately inside the front covers. Liszt argued that the transcriptions must be reprinted with the words underlying the notes, exactly as Schubert had done, a request that was honored by printing the words above the right-hand staff. Liszt also incorporated a visual scheme for distinguishing voice and accompaniment, influenced perhaps by Chopin, by notating the accompaniment in cue size. His transcription of Robert Schumann's Fruhlings Ankunft features the vocal line in normal size, the piano accompaniment in reduced size, an unmistakable guide in a busy texture as to which part should be emphasized: Example 1. Schumann-Liszt Fruhlings Ankunft, mm. 1-2. The same practice may be found in the transcription of Schumann's An die Turen will ich schleichen. In this piece, the performer must read three staves, in which the baritone line in the central staff is to be shared between the two hands based on the stem direction of the notes: Example 2. Schumann-Liszt An die Turen will ich schleichen, mm. 1-5. This notational practice is extremely beneficial in this instance, given the challenge of reading three staves and the manner in which the vocal line is performed by the two hands. Curiously, Liszt did not use this practice in other transcriptions. Approaches in Lieder Transcription Liszt adopted a variety of approaches in his Lieder transcriptions, based on the nature of the source material, the ways in which the vocal and piano parts could be combined and the ways in which the vocal part could sing. One approach, common with strophic Lieder, in which the vocal line would be identical in each verse, was to vary the register of the vocal part. The transcription of Lob der Tranen, for example, incorporates three of the four verses of the original Lied, with the register of the vocal line ascending one octave with each verse (from low to high), as if three different voices were participating. By the conclusion, the music encompasses the entire range of Liszt's keyboard to produce a stunning climactic effect, and the variety of register of the vocal line provides a welcome textural variety in the absence of the words. The three verses of the transcription of Auf dem Wasser zu singen follow the same approach, in which the vocal line ascends from the tenor, to the alto and to the soprano registers with each verse. Fruhlingsglaube adopts the opposite approach, in which the vocal line descends from soprano in verse 1 to tenor in verse 2, with the second part of verse 2 again resuming the soprano register; this is also the case in Das Wandern from Mullerlieder. Gretchen am Spinnrade posed a unique problem. Since the poem's narrator is female, and the poem represents an expression of her longing for her lover Faust, variation of the vocal line's register, strictly speaking, would have been impractical. For this reason, the vocal line remains in its original register throughout, relentlessly colliding with the sixteenth-note pattern of the accompaniment. One exception may be found in the fifth and final verse in mm. 93-112, at which point the vocal line is notated in a higher register and doubled in octaves. This sudden textural change, one that is readily audible, was a strategic means to underscore Gretchen's mounting anxiety (My bosom urges itself toward him. Ah, might I grasp and hold him! And kiss him as I would wish, at his kisses I should die!). The transcription, thus, becomes a vehicle for maximizing the emotional content of the poem, an exceptional undertaking with the general intent of a transcription. Registral variation of the vocal part also plays a crucial role in the transcription of Erlkonig. Goethe's poem depicts the death of a child who is apprehended by a supernatural Erlking, and Schubert, recognizing the dramatic nature of the poem, carefully depicted the characters (father, son and Erlking) through unique vocal writing and accompaniment patterns: the Lied is a dramatic entity. Liszt, in turn, followed Schubert's characterization in this literal transcription, yet took it an additional step by placing the register of the father's vocal line in the baritone range, that of the son in the soprano range and that of the Erlking in the highest register, options that would not have been available in the version for voice and piano. Additionally, Liszt labeled each appearance of each character in the score, a means for guiding the performer in interpreting the dramatic qualities of the Lied. As a result, the drama and energy of the poem are enhanced in this transcription; as with Gretchen am Spinnrade, the transcriber has maximized the content of the original. Elaboration may be found in certain Lieder transcriptions that expand the performance to a level of virtuosity not found in the original; in such cases, the transcription approximates the paraphrase. Schubert's Du bist die Ruh, a paradigm of musical simplicity, features an uncomplicated piano accompaniment that is virtually identical in each verse. In Liszt's transcription, the material is subjected to a highly virtuosic treatment that far exceeds the original, including a demanding passage for the left hand alone in the opening measures and unique textural writing in each verse. The piece is a transcription in virtuosity; its art, as Rosen noted, lies in the technique of transformation. Elaboration may entail an expansion of the musical form, as in the extensive introduction to Die Forelle and a virtuosic middle section (mm. 63-85), both of which are not in the original. Also unique to this transcription are two cadenzas that Liszt composed in response to the poetic content. The first, in m. 93 on the words und eh ich es gedacht (and before I could guess it), features a twisted chromatic passage that prolongs and thereby heightens the listener's suspense as to the fate of the trout (which is ultimately caught). The second, in m. 108 on the words Betrogne an (and my blood boiled as I saw the betrayed one), features a rush of diminished-seventh arpeggios in both hands, epitomizing the poet's rage at the fisherman for catching the trout. Less frequent are instances in which the length of the original Lied was shortened in the transcription, a tendency that may be found with certain strophic Lieder (e.g., Der Leiermann, Wasserflut and Das Wandern). Another transcription that demonstrates Liszt's readiness to modify the original in the interests of the poetic content is Standchen, the seventh transcription from Schubert's Schwanengesang. Adapted from Act II of Shakespeare's Cymbeline, the poem represents the repeated beckoning of a man to his lover. Liszt transformed the Lied into a miniature drama by transcribing the vocal line of the first verse in the soprano register, that of the second verse in the baritone register, in effect, creating a dialogue between the two lovers. In mm. 71-102, the dialogue becomes a canon, with one voice trailing the other like an echo (as labeled in the score) at the distance of a beat. As in other instances, the transcription resembles the paraphrase, and it is perhaps for this reason that Liszt provided an ossia version that is more in the nature of a literal transcription. The ossia version, six measures shorter than Schubert's original, is less demanding technically than the original transcription, thus representing an ossia of transcription and an ossia of piano technique. The Schumann Lieder transcriptions, in general, display a less imaginative treatment of the source material. Elaborations are less frequently encountered, and virtuosity is more restricted, as if the passage of time had somewhat tamed the composer's approach to transcriptions; alternatively, Liszt was eager to distance himself from the fierce virtuosity of his early years. In most instances, these transcriptions are literal arrangements of the source material, with the vocal line in its original form combined with the accompaniment, which often doubles the vocal line in the original Lied. Widmung, the first of the Schumann transcriptions, is one exception in the way it recalls the virtuosity of the Schubert transcriptions of the 1830s. Particularly striking is the closing section (mm. 58-73), in which material of the opening verse (right hand) is combined with the triplet quarter notes (left hand) from the second section of the Lied (mm. 32-43), as if the transcriber were attempting to reconcile the different material of these two sections. Fruhlingsnacht resembles a paraphrase by presenting each of the two verses in differing registers (alto for verse 1, mm. 3-19, and soprano for verse 2, mm. 20-31) and by concluding with a virtuosic section that considerably extends the length of the original Lied. The original tonalities of the Lieder were generally retained in the transcriptions, showing that the tonality was an important part of the transcription process. The infrequent instances of transposition were done for specific reasons. In 1861, Liszt transcribed two of Schumann's Lieder, one from Op. 36 (An den Sonnenschein), another from Op. 27 (Dem roten Roslein), and merged these two pieces in the collection 2 Lieder; they share only the common tonality of A major. His choice for combining these two Lieder remains unknown, but he clearly recognized that some tonal variety would be needed, for which reason Dem roten Roslein was transposed to C>= major. The collection features An den Sonnenschein in A major (with a transition to the new tonality), followed by Dem roten Roslein in C>= major (without a change of key signature), and concluding with a reprise of An den Sonnenschein in A major. A three-part form was thus established with tonal variety provided by keys in third relations (A-C>=-A); in effect, two of Schumann's Lieder were transcribed into an archetypal song without words. In other instances, Liszt treated tonality and tonal organization as important structural ingredients, particularly in the transcriptions of Schubert's Lieder cycles, i.e. Schwanengesang, Winterreise a...

SKU: CN.R10004

A slow introduction gives way to the chirpy theme which is developed, inverted, and accents displaced across the bar line to give a 3/2 feel against the written meter. Restlessness leads to a tranquillo presented by the flute and clarinet, weaving a flowing counterpoint around the melody until the original slow introduction returns. A triumphant recapitulation of the main theme brings this wonderful piece to an end.

Originally composed for Brass Band in 1934 Comedy Overture is, despite its name, a serious piece of writing. The term Overture does not imply that there is anything else to follow; it is used in the 19th century sense of Concert Overture (like Mendelssohn's Fingal's Cave - in other words, a miniature Tone Poem). The 1930's was a period of Ireland's mature writing - yielding the Piano Concerto (1930), the Legend for piano and orchestra (1933), and the choral work These Things Shall Be (1936-1937). We are fortunate therefore to have both Comedy Overture and A Downland Suite (1932) written for band medium at this time. As with Maritime Overture (written in 1944 for military band) Ireland approaches his material symphonically. The opening three notes state immediately the two seminal intervals of a semitone and a third. These are brooding and dark in Bb minor. It is these intervals which make up much of the thematic content of Comedy, sometimes appearing in inverted form, and sometimes in major forms as well. The concept that some musical intervals are consonant , some dissonant, and some perfect is perhaps useful in understanding the nature of the tension and resolution of this work. The third is inherently unstable, and by bar 4, the interval is expanded to a fourth - with an ascending sem-quaver triplet - and then expanded to a fifth. The instability of the third pushes it towards a perfect resolution in the fourth or the fifth. The slow introduction is built entirely around these intervals in Bb minor and leads through an oboe cadenza, to an Allegro moderato brillante in Bb major. Once again, the semi-tone (inverted) and a third (major) comprise the main, chirpy, theme-inspired by a London bus-conductor's cry of Piccadilly. (Much of the material in Comedy was re-conceived by Ireland for orchestra and published two years later under the title A London Overture.) The expansion of the interval of a third through a fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh now takes place quickly before our very ears at the outset of this quicker section. Immediately the theme is developed, inverted, and accents displaced across the bar line to give a 3/2 feel against the written meter. But this restlessness leads to a tranquillo built around an arpeggio figure and presented by flute and clarinet. Ireland weaves his flowing counterpoint around this melody until the original slow introduction returns leading to a stretto effect as the rising bass motifs become more urgent, requesting a resolution of the tension of that original semitone and minor third. Yet resolution is withheld at this point as the music becomes almost becalmed in a further, unrelated tranquillo section marked pianissimo. It is almost as if another side of Ireland's nature is briefly allowed to shine through the stern counterpoint and disciplined structure. This leads to virtually a full recapitulation of the chirpy brilliante, with small additional touches of counterpoint, followed by the first tranquillo section-this time in the tonic of Bb major. But the instability of the third re-asserts itself, this time demanding a resolution. And a triumphant resolution it receives, for it finally becomes fully fledged and reiterates the octave in a closing vivace. The opening tension has at last resolved itself into the most perfect interval of all.

SKU: BT.DHP-1002209-010

Sinfonia Hungarica is a three-movement symphony that depicts the history of Hungary. All three movements were inspired by historical key figures, wars, and other important events from this country. This symphony is a celebration of Hungary’s millennium in 2001.The final movement is named after ISTVAN, the King who introduced Christianity into Hungary and who was crowned by Pope Silvestro II on January 1, 1001. A rather solemn start leads to another war-like passage, ending with some loud crashes. This symbolizes the fact that the body of the pagan Koppany was cut into four pieces, and sent to the four castles of the country as an example. After a quiet, almost religiousintermezzo, the National Hymn of Hungary is introduced. This broad “grandioso” ending also has a symbolic meaning: after ten centuries, Hungary has many reasons to look back on the past with pride, and to look forward to the future with optimism and confidence.

Dit stuk werd gecomponeerd in opdracht van het symfonisch blaasorkest Kiskunfélegyhaza uit Hongarije en opgedragen aan dirigent Ferenc Jankovski, burgemeester Jozsef Ficsor en Gabriella Kiss. De wereldpremière vond plaats op 31 maart2001 in Budapest (Hongarije) door het eerdergenoemde orkest onder leiding van de componist.Deze driedelige symfonie beschrijft de geschiedenis van Hongarije. De drie delen zijn ge nspireerd op historische sleutelfiguren, oorlogenen andere belangrijke gebeurtenissen in dit land. De symfonie werd geschreven ter gelegenheid van de millenniumviering van Hongarije in 2001.ATTILA, koning van de Hunnen, vaak ‘de gesel Gods’ genoemd, is de centrale figuurin het eerste deel, dat voornamelijk wordt gekenmerkt door angst, dreiging, agressie en wreedheid. Attila’s broer, Buda, heeft echter een hero scher thema, terwijl zijn geliefde vrouw, Rika, een lyrische melodie heeft. Het spannendeeinde van dit openingsdeel illustreert de gevreesde snelheid van Attila’s troepen: ze achtervolgden hun slachtoffers en vermoordden ze allemaal! Het tweede deel gaat over ARPAD, de stichter van de Hongaarse staat. Hetbegint met een sfeerpassage, die het beeld oproept van zijn grootmoeder, Emese, dromend over zijn bestemming. Een van Arpad’s tegenstanders, de Bulgaarse prins Zalan, werd verdreven na een gevecht. Hierna noemde Arpad het gebiedofficieel ‘Magyarorszag’.Het laatste deel is genoemd naar ISTVAN, de koning die het christendom in Hongarije introduceerde en die werd gekroond door paus Silvester II op 1 januari 1001. Een vrij plechtige start leidt tot nogeen martiale passage, die eindigt met een aantal luide slagen. Deze symboliseren het voorval waarbij het lichaam van de heiden Koppany in vier stukken werd gesneden, die naar de vier kastelen van het land werden gezonden als schrikwekkend

Die Sinfonie in drei Sätzen ist eine musikalische Schilderung der Geschichte Ungarns. Alle drei Sätze haben bedeutende historische Persönlichkeiten und Schlüsselereignisse aus der Landesgeschichte - wie etwa Kriege - zum Inhalt. Das Werk wurde zuUngarns Tausendjahrfeier im Jahr 2001 geschrieben.Attila, König der Hunnen, oftmals auch die Geißel Gottes genannt, ist die zentrale Gestalt des ersten Satzes; in seiner musikalischen Beschreibung sind Aggressivität und Grausamkeit, die vonihm ausgehende Bedrohung und ihm entgegengebrachte Furcht spürbar. Daneben erscheinen das heroischer klingende Thema von Buda, Attilas Bruder, und das lyrische von Rika, seiner zärtlich geliebten Frau. Der aufpeitschende Schluss desSatzes ist Sinnbild für die gefürchtete Schnelligkeit von Attilas Truppen, mit der sie ihre Opfer eingeholt und ohne Ausnahme getötet haben.Im Mittelpunkt des zweiten Satzes steht Arpad, der eigentliche Begründer des ungarischen Staates. Eineatmosphärisch klingende Einleitung beschwört Emese, die Großmutter Arpads, herauf, die im Traum seine Bestimmung vorhergesehen hatte. Er schlug seinen Gegner, den Prinzen Zalan von Bulgarien, im Kampf in die Flucht und gab dem Land denNamen Magyarorszag.Das Finale ist nach Istvan benannt, dem König, der in Ungarn das Christentum einführte und am ersten Januar 1001 durch Papst Sylvester II. gekrönt wurde. Ein feierlicher Anfang leitet über in einen an Kriegsgetümmelerinnernden Abschnitt, der in lärmendem Getöse endet. Es steht für das Ende des Heiden Koppany, dessen Körper gevierteilt und als abschreckendes Beispiel an die vier Burgen des Landes gesandt wurde. Ein ruhiges, beinahe religiös wirkendesZwischenspiel mündet in die ungarische Nationalhymne. Dieser prachtvolle, mit grandioso überschriebene Schluss hat auch eine symbolische Bedeutung: Nach zehn Jahrhunderten hat Ungarn guten Grund, mit Stolz zurückzublicken und der Zukunft mitZuversicht und Optimismus entgegenzusehen.Die wunderbare Melodie der Nationalhymne erscheint in der Sinfonie auch vorher schon immer wieder, wird meist aber ganz oder teilweise überdeckt. Sie durchläuft das Werk wie ein roter Faden, der anfangs kaumwahrzunehmen ist und erst im Verlauf der Sinfonie immer deutlicher wird. Am Ende krönt sie das Werk in einer letzten prachtvollen Steigerung, in der das Orchester den majestätischen Klang einer Orgel annimmt.

Sinfonia Hungarica est une œuvre de commande pour l’Orchestre d’Harmonie de Kiskunfelegyhaze en Hongrie. Elle est dédiée Ferenc Jankovski (Directeur de l’Orchestre d’Harmonie), Jozsef Ficsor (Maire de la ville de Kiskunfelegyhaze) et Gabriella Kiss.Cette symphonie en trois mouvements retrace l’histoire de la Hongrie. L’ensemble des trois mouvements s’inspire de la vie de personnages historiques clés, de guerres et d’autres événements de grande importance qui ont marqué l’histoire de ce pays. Sinfonia Hungarica célèbre le millénaire de la fondation de l’État hongrois (1001-2001). L’œuvre a été donnée en création mondiale, le 31 mars 2001 Budapest,par l’Orchestre d’Harmonie de Kiskunfelegyhaze placé sous la direction du compositeur.ATTILA, roi des Huns, surnommé “le Fléau de Dieu”, est le personnage central du premier mouvement où règne une atmosphère de peur, de menace, d’agression et de cruauté. Bléda, le frère d’Attila, est associé un thème aux accents plus héro ques, tandis que Kerka, l’épouse bien-aimée du roi des Huns, est représentée par une mélodie lyrique. La fin trépidante de ce mouvement d’ouverture illustre l’effroyable rapidité avec laquelle les troupes d’Attila poursuivaient et tuaient toutes leurs victimes.Le deuxième mouvement est centré sur ARPAD, le fondateur de l’État hongrois. Un passage limpide et aérien ouvre ce mouvement évoquant Émèse, la grand-mère d’Arpad, qui vit en rêve sa destinée future. Après avoir livré bataille contre l’un de ses opposants, le prince bulgare Zalan, et l’avoir chassé des terres magyares, Arpad donne officiellement au territoire le nom de Magyarorszag.Le troisième et dernier mouvement de la symphonie porte le nom de celui qui convertit le pays au christianisme : Étienne Ier (ISTVAN), sacré roi de Hongrie le 1er janvier 1001 par le Pape Sylvestre II. Les mesures d’ouverture, solennelles et majestueuses, mènent un passage dont l’atmosphère belliqueuse s’intensifie pour s’achever en de violents fracas symbolisant la mort

Sinfonia Hungarica, commissionata dalla banda ungherese di Kiskunfelegyahaza, è dedicata al maestro Ferenc Jankovski, al sindaco della citt Jozsef Ficsor e a Gabriella Kiss. La prima mondiale, eseguita dalla banda Kiskunfelegyhaza si è tenutaa Budapest il 31 marzo 2001 sotto la direzione del compositore.Gli eventi salienti della storia dell’Ungheria, come le guerre ed altri avvenimenti importanti, sono tradotti in musica in questa sinfonia strutturata in tre movimenti. Sinfonia Hungaricavuole anche essere un omaggio allo stato ungherese che festeggia il suo millennio nel 2001.ATTILA, re degli Unni, spesso chiamato “il flagello di Dio“ è la figura centrale del primo movimento, caratterizzato dalla paura, dalla minaccia,dall’aggressione e dalla crudelt . Buda, fratello di Attila è associato ad un tema più eroico, mentre Rika, l’amata moglie, è rappresentata da una melodia lirica. L’eccitante finale di questo movimento di apertura illustra la tanto temuta velocit delle truppe di Attila che seminavano paura e morte.Il secondo movimento pone l’accento su ARPAD, il fondatore dello Stato ungherese. Inizia con un passaggio in stile atmosferico che evoca la nonna di Arpad, Emese che aveva sognato e predettoil futuro del nipote. Uno degli oppositori di Arpad, il principe bulgaro Zalan, fu cacciato dopo una battaglia. In seguito, Arpad chiamò ufficialmente il territorio “Magyarorszag”.Il movimento finale prende il nome da ISTVAN, il re che portòil cristianesimo in Ungheria e che fu incoronato da Papa Silvestro II il 1 gennaio, 1001. Un inizio solenne prelude ad un passaggio bellico accentuato da rumori imponenti; questo a simboleggiare l’atroce fine del pagano Koppany il cui corpo futagliato in quattro pezzi e inviato ai quattro castelli del paese come monito. Dopo un intermezzo quieto, quasi religioso, viene presentato l’Inno nazionale ungherese. In questo ampio e grandioso finale riecheggia l’orgoglio dell’Ungheria nelricordare il suo passato e la fiducia con la quale si proietta al futuro.Lo stupendo tema dell’Inno nazionale ungherese è proposto nell’arco dell’intera sinfonia. E’ però spesso parzialmente nascosto e usato come filo conduttore, appena riconoscibileall’inizio ma sempre più ovvio quando la sinfonia si avvicina al suo finale. A conclusione della sinfonia, il sublime inno conduce la banda in un’apoteosi finale, facendo apparire l’organico strumentale come un maestoso organo.

SKU: BT.DHP-1002207-140

Sinfonia Hungarica is a three-movement symphony that depicts the history of Hungary. All three movements were inspired by historical key figures, wars, and other important events from this country. This symphony is a celebration of Hungary’s millennium in 2001.ATTILA, King of the Huns, often named “The scourge of God,” is the central figure of the first movement, mainly characterized by fear, threat, aggression, and cruelty. Attila’s brother, Buda, however, has a more heroic theme, while his beloved wife, Rika, has a lyrical melody. The exciting ending of this opening movement illustrates the dreaded speed of Attila’s troops: they pursued their victims and killed them all!

Dit stuk werd gecomponeerd in opdracht van het symfonisch blaasorkest Kiskunfélegyhaza uit Hongarije en opgedragen aan dirigent Ferenc Jankovski, burgemeester Jozsef Ficsor en Gabriella Kiss. De wereldpremière vond plaats op 31 maart2001 in Budapest (Hongarije) door het eerdergenoemde orkest onder leiding van de componist.Deze driedelige symfonie beschrijft de geschiedenis van Hongarije. De drie delen zijn ge nspireerd op historische sleutelfiguren, oorlogenen andere belangrijke gebeurtenissen in dit land. De symfonie werd geschreven ter gelegenheid van de millenniumviering van Hongarije in 2001.ATTILA, koning van de Hunnen, vaak ‘de gesel Gods’ genoemd, is de centrale figuurin het eerste deel, dat voornamelijk wordt gekenmerkt door angst, dreiging, agressie en wreedheid. Attila’s broer, Buda, heeft echter een hero scher thema, terwijl zijn geliefde vrouw, Rika, een lyrische melodie heeft. Het spannendeeinde van dit openingsdeel illustreert de gevreesde snelheid van Attila’s troepen: ze achtervolgden hun slachtoffers en vermoordden ze allemaal! Het tweede deel gaat over ARPAD, de stichter van de Hongaarse staat. Hetbegint met een sfeerpassage, die het beeld oproept van zijn grootmoeder, Emese, dromend over zijn bestemming. Een van Arpad’s tegenstanders, de Bulgaarse prins Zalan, werd verdreven na een gevecht. Hierna noemde Arpad het gebiedofficieel ‘Magyarorszag’.Het laatste deel is genoemd naar ISTVAN, de koning die het christendom in Hongarije introduceerde en die werd gekroond door paus Silvester II op 1 januari 1001. Een vrij plechtige start leidt tot nogeen martiale passage, die eindigt met een aantal luide slagen. Deze symboliseren het voorval waarbij het lichaam van de heiden Koppany in vier stukken werd gesneden, die naar de vier kastelen van het land werden gezonden als schrikwekkend

Die Sinfonie in drei Sätzen ist eine musikalische Schilderung der Geschichte Ungarns. Alle drei Sätze haben bedeutende historische Persönlichkeiten und Schlüsselereignisse aus der Landesgeschichte - wie etwa Kriege - zum Inhalt. Das Werk wurde zuUngarns Tausendjahrfeier im Jahr 2001 geschrieben.Attila, König der Hunnen, oftmals auch die Geißel Gottes genannt, ist die zentrale Gestalt des ersten Satzes; in seiner musikalischen Beschreibung sind Aggressivität und Grausamkeit, die vonihm ausgehende Bedrohung und ihm entgegengebrachte Furcht spürbar. Daneben erscheinen das heroischer klingende Thema von Buda, Attilas Bruder, und das lyrische von Rika, seiner zärtlich geliebten Frau. Der aufpeitschende Schluss desSatzes ist Sinnbild für die gefürchtete Schnelligkeit von Attilas Truppen, mit der sie ihre Opfer eingeholt und ohne Ausnahme getötet haben.Im Mittelpunkt des zweiten Satzes steht Arpad, der eigentliche Begründer des ungarischen Staates. Eineatmosphärisch klingende Einleitung beschwört Emese, die Großmutter Arpads, herauf, die im Traum seine Bestimmung vorhergesehen hatte. Er schlug seinen Gegner, den Prinzen Zalan von Bulgarien, im Kampf in die Flucht und gab dem Land denNamen Magyarorszag.Das Finale ist nach Istvan benannt, dem König, der in Ungarn das Christentum einführte und am ersten Januar 1001 durch Papst Sylvester II. gekrönt wurde. Ein feierlicher Anfang leitet über in einen an Kriegsgetümmelerinnernden Abschnitt, der in lärmendem Getöse endet. Es steht für das Ende des Heiden Koppany, dessen Körper gevierteilt und als abschreckendes Beispiel an die vier Burgen des Landes gesandt wurde. Ein ruhiges, beinahe religiös wirkendesZwischenspiel mündet in die ungarische Nationalhymne. Dieser prachtvolle, mit grandioso überschriebene Schluss hat auch eine symbolische Bedeutung: Nach zehn Jahrhunderten hat Ungarn guten Grund, mit Stolz zurückzublicken und der Zukunft mitZuversicht und Optimismus entgegenzusehen.Die wunderbare Melodie der Nationalhymne erscheint in der Sinfonie auch vorher schon immer wieder, wird meist aber ganz oder teilweise überdeckt. Sie durchläuft das Werk wie ein roter Faden, der anfangs kaumwahrzunehmen ist und erst im Verlauf der Sinfonie immer deutlicher wird. Am Ende krönt sie das Werk in einer letzten prachtvollen Steigerung, in der das Orchester den majestätischen Klang einer Orgel annimmt.

Sinfonia Hungarica est une œuvre de commande pour l’Orchestre d’Harmonie de Kiskunfelegyhaze en Hongrie. Elle est dédiée Ferenc Jankovski (Directeur de l’Orchestre d’Harmonie), Jozsef Ficsor (Maire de la ville de Kiskunfelegyhaze) et Gabriella Kiss.Cette symphonie en trois mouvements retrace l’histoire de la Hongrie. L’ensemble des trois mouvements s’inspire de la vie de personnages historiques clés, de guerres et d’autres événements de grande importance qui ont marqué l’histoire de ce pays. Sinfonia Hungarica célèbre le millénaire de la fondation de l’État hongrois (1001-2001). L’œuvre a été donnée en création mondiale, le 31 mars 2001 Budapest,par l’Orchestre d’Harmonie de Kiskunfelegyhaze placé sous la direction du compositeur.ATTILA, roi des Huns, surnommé “le Fléau de Dieu”, est le personnage central du premier mouvement où règne une atmosphère de peur, de menace, d’agression et de cruauté. Bléda, le frère d’Attila, est associé un thème aux accents plus héro ques, tandis que Kerka, l’épouse bien-aimée du roi des Huns, est représentée par une mélodie lyrique. La fin trépidante de ce mouvement d’ouverture illustre l’effroyable rapidité avec laquelle les troupes d’Attila poursuivaient et tuaient toutes leurs victimes.Le deuxième mouvement est centré sur ARPAD, le fondateur de l’État hongrois. Un passage limpide et aérien ouvre ce mouvement évoquant Émèse, la grand-mère d’Arpad, qui vit en rêve sa destinée future. Après avoir livré bataille contre l’un de ses opposants, le prince bulgare Zalan, et l’avoir chassé des terres magyares, Arpad donne officiellement au territoire le nom de Magyarorszag.Le troisième et dernier mouvement de la symphonie porte le nom de celui qui convertit le pays au christianisme : Étienne Ier (ISTVAN), sacré roi de Hongrie le 1er janvier 1001 par le Pape Sylvestre II. Les mesures d’ouverture, solennelles et majestueuses, mènent un passage dont l’atmosphère belliqueuse s’intensifie pour s’achever en de violents fracas symbolisant la mort

Sinfonia Hungarica, commissionata dalla banda ungherese di Kiskunfelegyahaza, è dedicata al maestro Ferenc Jankovski, al sindaco della citt Jozsef Ficsor e a Gabriella Kiss. La prima mondiale, eseguita dalla banda Kiskunfelegyhaza si è tenutaa Budapest il 31 marzo 2001 sotto la direzione del compositore.Gli eventi salienti della storia dell’Ungheria, come le guerre ed altri avvenimenti importanti, sono tradotti in musica in questa sinfonia strutturata in tre movimenti. Sinfonia Hungaricavuole anche essere un omaggio allo stato ungherese che festeggia il suo millennio nel 2001.ATTILA, re degli Unni, spesso chiamato “il flagello di Dio“ è la figura centrale del primo movimento, caratterizzato dalla paura, dalla minaccia,dall’aggressione e dalla crudelt . Buda, fratello di Attila è associato ad un tema più eroico, mentre Rika, l’amata moglie, è rappresentata da una melodia lirica. L’eccitante finale di questo movimento di apertura illustra la tanto temuta velocit delle truppe di Attila che seminavano paura e morte.Il secondo movimento pone l’accento su ARPAD, il fondatore dello Stato ungherese. Inizia con un passaggio in stile atmosferico che evoca la nonna di Arpad, Emese che aveva sognato e predettoil futuro del nipote. Uno degli oppositori di Arpad, il principe bulgaro Zalan, fu cacciato dopo una battaglia. In seguito, Arpad chiamò ufficialmente il territorio “Magyarorszag”.Il movimento finale prende il nome da ISTVAN, il re che portòil cristianesimo in Ungheria e che fu incoronato da Papa Silvestro II il 1 gennaio, 1001. Un inizio solenne prelude ad un passaggio bellico accentuato da rumori imponenti; questo a simboleggiare l’atroce fine del pagano Koppany il cui corpo futagliato in quattro pezzi e inviato ai quattro castelli del paese come monito. Dopo un intermezzo quieto, quasi religioso, viene presentato l’Inno nazionale ungherese. In questo ampio e grandioso finale riecheggia l’orgoglio dell’Ungheria nelricordare il suo passato e la fiducia con la quale si proietta al futuro.Lo stupendo tema dell’Inno nazionale ungherese è proposto nell’arco dell’intera sinfonia. E’ però spesso parzialmente nascosto e usato come filo conduttore, appena riconoscibileall’inizio ma sempre più ovvio quando la sinfonia si avvicina al suo finale. A conclusione della sinfonia, il sublime inno conduce la banda in un’apoteosi finale, facendo apparire l’organico strumentale come un maestoso organo.

SKU: BT.BMP8095417

A lot is known about the American composer Leroy Anderson. This son of Swedish immigrants played the piano, organ, accordion, trombone, tuba and double bass. He spoke several languages fluently and graduated from Harvard with first-class honours.While on military service, the army also commissioned him to write a manual on Icelandic grammar.He already started writing musical arrangements as a student, and from his 30th year arranged and composed for the Boston Pops Orchestra. Such melodiesas Serenata, The Typewriter, Sleigh Ride and Bugler�s Holiday made him world famous. His best-known work, Blue Tango, reached number one in the US charts in 1952, and it sold more than a million copies. In 1975, a year after hisdeath, he was given a star at the Walk of Fame in Hollywood.Most of his works last no longer than three minutes, about the maximum length of a single at that time. One work that lasts longer is his 1953 Piano Concerto in C for piano and orchestra.The first performance was in Chicago, conducted by the composer and with Eugene List at the piano. However, after three performances he was no longer happy with the work and withdrew it. He always intended to revise it, but never got round to it. Itwas only in 1989 that the Anderson family decided to republish the work.This three-part composition is on the one hand characterised by a careless elegance, but on the other one can hear the influence of Rachmaninoff, Copland, Gershwin, and evenBeethoven and Mozart, as well as the Viennese classics.Anderson used the sonata form for the first movement. It ends with a cadenza that carries us on into the second part (in e minor). The third part is a typically cheerful American folk dance in2/4 time, a so-called Hoe Down, with a lilting, lyrical passage as its middle section. At the end comes a solo passage followed by a rapid close.In this piano concerto, Anderson combines a rigidly classical form of composition with simple andappealing themes and elements from light music. So this work is a perfect synthesis of light music and what is called serious music, in the same way as Gershwin�s Rhapsody in Blue. A work that can be played equally well in a concerthall, at an open-air concert or even a pop concert.

Over de Amerikaanse componist Leroy Anderson is veel bekend. Deze zoon van Zweedse immigranten speelde piano, orgel, accordeon, trombone, tuba en contrabas. Hij sprak vloeiend verschillende talen en studeerde met grote onderscheidingaf aan Harvard en schreef tijdens zijn legerdienst in opdracht van het leger een handboek grammatica Ijslands.Al in zijn studententijd begon hij met het maken van arrangementen, en vanaf zijn 30ste arrangeerde en componeerde hijvoor het Boston Pops Orchestra. Melodieën zoals Serenata, The Typewriter, Sleigh Ride en Bugler's Holiday maakte hem wereldberoemd. Zijn bekendste werk Blue Tango stond in 1952 op nummer één in de VS Charts, ener werden meer dan een miljoen exemplaren van verkocht. Een jaar na zijn dood in 1975 kreeg hij een ster op de Walk of Fame in Hollywood.Zijn meeste werken duren niet langer dan drie minuten, ongeveer de maximumduur van een singletoen. Een werk dat wel langer duurt, is het pianoconcerto in C voor piano en orkest uit 1953. Het werd in Chicago gecreëerd onder zijn leiding met Eugene List aan de piano. Na drie uitvoeringen echter, was hij niet meer tevredenover zijn werk en trok dit terug. Hij had zijn leven lang de intentie het te herwerken doch kwam er niet meer toe. Pas in 1989 besliste de Anderson Familie zijn pianoconcerto toch opnieuw uit te geven.Dit driedelige werk wordtenerzijds getypeerd door een zorgeloze elegantie, maar anderzijds zijn invloeden van Rachmaninoff, Copland, Gerschwin en zelfs Beethoven en Mozart alsook de Weense klassiekers te horen.Voor de eerste beweging, past Anderson de sonatevormtoe. Op het einde volgt een cadenza die ons in het tweede deel (in mi klein) voert. Het derde deel is een typische Amerikaanse, vrolijke volksdans in 2/4, een zogenaamde Hoe Down met als middengedeelte een zangerige, lyrische

Über den amerikanischen Komponisten Leroy Anderson lässt sich vieles berichten: Der Sohn schwedischer Immigranten spielte Klavier, Orgel, Akkordeon, Posaune, Tuba und Kontrabass, sprach neun Sprachen fließend, absolvierte mit einemMagna-cum-laude-Abschluss die Harvard Universität und verfasste während seiner Militärzeit im Zweiten Weltkrieg für die amerikanische Armee eine Grammatik des Isländischen. Schon während seiner Studentenzeit begann er zu arrangieren, ab Mitte der30er Jahre des letzten Jahrhunderts arrangierte und komponierte er für das Boston Pops Orchestra. Aus seiner Feder stammen so bekannte Werke der leichten Muse wie Serenata, The Typewriter, Sleigh Ride oder Bugler�s Holiday. Sein wohlbekanntestes Stück, Blue Tango, wurde als erste Instrumentalkomposition über eine Million Mal verkauft und belegte im Jahr 1952 Platz 1 der US-Charts. Für seine Verdienste um die Schallplattenindustrie erhielt er ein Jahr nach seinem Tod einenStern auf dem Walk of Fame in Hollywood.Charakteristisch für seine Werke ist die Dauer: die meisten sind rund drei Minuten lang � mehr passte nicht auf den damals gebräuchlichen Tonträger, eine Singleschallplatte. Nur wenige seinerKompositionen sprengen diesen Zeitrahmen. Dazu gehört sein Konzert C-Dur für Klavier und Orchester. Er komponierte es 1953, die Uraufführung fand unter seiner Leitung und mit Eugene List am Klavier im selben Jahr in Chicago statt. Da Anderson mit demWerk aber nicht zufrieden war, zog er es im Sommer 1954, nach nur drei Aufführungen, wieder ein. Er hatte zeitlebens die Absicht, es zu überarbeiten, allein, es kam nicht mehr dazu. Erst 1989 entschied sich die Anderson-Familie dazu, dasKlavierkonzert wieder zu veröffentlichen.Das dreisätzige Werk zeigt die Unbeschwertheit und Eleganz, die Andersons sämtliche Kompositionen auszeichnen. Dennoch findet man darin auch Anklänge an Komponisten wie Rachmaninoff, Copland, Gershwin, undeben Beethoven und Mozart, sowie die Wiener Klassiker. Der erste Satz folgt der Sonatenhauptsatzform. An seinem Ende steht eine Klavierkadenz, die direkt in den langsamen zweiten Satz (in e-Moll) überleitet. Der dritte Satz schließlich ist einwaschechter Hoe Down, ein fröhlicher amerikanischer Volkstanz im 2/4-Takt, in dessen Zentrum aber eine lyrisch-gesangliche Passage steht. Eine weitere Solo-Kadenz führt das Werk in einen spritzigen Schlussabschnitt.In seinem Klavierkonzertvereinigt Anderson einen klassisch-traditionellen Form- und Kompositionsstil mit Elementen der Unterhaltungsmusik und eingängigen Melodien, die schon immer sein Markenzeichen waren. Daher bildet dieses Werk eine perfekte Synthese von ernster undleichter Musik. Es passt � wie beispielsweise auch George Gershwins Rhapsody in Blue � gleichermaßen in einen vornehmen Konzertsaal, wie auch zur zwanglos-lockeren Atmosphäre einer sommerlichen Open-Air-Veranstaltung oder einesPops-Konzertes.

Nous savons beaucoup de choses sur le compositeur américain Leroy Anderson. Ce fils dimmigrants suédois jouait du piano, de lorgue, de laccordéon, du trombone, du tuba et de la contrebasse. Il parlait couramment plusieurs langues et était diplômé avec grande distinction de Harvard. Pendant son service militaire, il écrivit un manuel de grammaire islandaise commandé par larmée.Étudiant, il avait déj commencé faire des arrangements et dès l ge de 30 ans, il arrangeait et composait pour le Boston Pops Orchestra. Des mélodies telles que Serenata, The Typewriter, Sleigh Ride et Buglers Holiday lui valurent une renommée mondiale. Son uvre phare, Blue Tango, fut numéro un descharts américains en 1952 et se vendit plus dun million dexemplaires. Un an après sa mort en 1975, il eut droit son étoile sur le Walk of Fame Hollywood.La plupart de ses uvres nexcèdent pas trois minutes, soit peu près la durée maximale dun single lépoque. Son concerto en ut pour piano et orchestre de 1953 est quant lui plus long. Il fut créé Chicago sous sa direction avec Eugene List au piano. Après trois exécutions, Anderson nétait toutefois plus satisfait de son travail et le retira. Toute sa vie, il eut lintention de le remanier mais ne le fit pas. Ce nest quen 1989 que la famille Anderson décida de tout de m?me rééditer son concerto pour piano.Cette uvre en trois parties se caractérise par son élégance nonchalante mais aussi par linfluence de Rachmaninoff, Copland, Gershwin et m?me de Beethoven et Mozart, ainsi que des classiques viennois.Pour le premier mouvement, Anderson opte pour une sonate. la fin, une cadence nous conduit la deuxième partie (en mi mineur). La troisième partie est une danse populaire joyeuse et typiquement américaine en 2/4, une Hoe Down avec un passage lyrique et mélodieux en son milieu. la fin, un solo est suivi par une clôture rapide.Dans son concerto pour piano, Anderson unit une composition pure et classique des thèmes beaux et simples, sans oublier des éléments de la musique légère. Cette uvre.

SKU: BT.DHP-1002208-010

Sinfonia Hungarica is a three-movement symphony that depicts the history of Hungary. All three movements were inspired by historical key figures, wars, and other important events from this country. This symphony is a celebration of Hungary’s millennium in 2001.The second movement focuses on ARPAD, the actual founder of the Hungarian State. It starts with an atmospherical passage, evoking his grandmother, Emese, who dreamt about his future destination. One of Arpad’s opponents, the Bulgarian Prince Zalan, was chased away after a fight. After this, Arpad officially named the territory “Magyarorszag.”

Dit stuk werd gecomponeerd in opdracht van het symfonisch blaasorkest Kiskunfélegyhaza uit Hongarije en opgedragen aan dirigent Ferenc Jankovski, burgemeester Jozsef Ficsor en Gabriella Kiss. De wereldpremière vond plaats op 31 maart2001 in Budapest (Hongarije) door het eerdergenoemde orkest onder leiding van de componist.Deze driedelige symfonie beschrijft de geschiedenis van Hongarije. De drie delen zijn ge nspireerd op historische sleutelfiguren, oorlogenen andere belangrijke gebeurtenissen in dit land. De symfonie werd geschreven ter gelegenheid van de millenniumviering van Hongarije in 2001.ATTILA, koning van de Hunnen, vaak ‘de gesel Gods’ genoemd, is de centrale figuurin het eerste deel, dat voornamelijk wordt gekenmerkt door angst, dreiging, agressie en wreedheid. Attila’s broer, Buda, heeft echter een hero scher thema, terwijl zijn geliefde vrouw, Rika, een lyrische melodie heeft. Het spannendeeinde van dit openingsdeel illustreert de gevreesde snelheid van Attila’s troepen: ze achtervolgden hun slachtoffers en vermoordden ze allemaal! Het tweede deel gaat over ARPAD, de stichter van de Hongaarse staat. Hetbegint met een sfeerpassage, die het beeld oproept van zijn grootmoeder, Emese, dromend over zijn bestemming. Een van Arpad’s tegenstanders, de Bulgaarse prins Zalan, werd verdreven na een gevecht. Hierna noemde Arpad het gebiedofficieel ‘Magyarorszag’.Het laatste deel is genoemd naar ISTVAN, de koning die het christendom in Hongarije introduceerde en die werd gekroond door paus Silvester II op 1 januari 1001. Een vrij plechtige start leidt tot nogeen martiale passage, die eindigt met een aantal luide slagen. Deze symboliseren het voorval waarbij het lichaam van de heiden Koppany in vier stukken werd gesneden, die naar de vier kastelen van het land werden gezonden als schrikwekkend

Die Sinfonie in drei Sätzen ist eine musikalische Schilderung der Geschichte Ungarns. Alle drei Sätze haben bedeutende historische Persönlichkeiten und Schlüsselereignisse aus der Landesgeschichte - wie etwa Kriege - zum Inhalt. Das Werk wurde zuUngarns Tausendjahrfeier im Jahr 2001 geschrieben.Attila, König der Hunnen, oftmals auch die Geißel Gottes genannt, ist die zentrale Gestalt des ersten Satzes; in seiner musikalischen Beschreibung sind Aggressivität und Grausamkeit, die vonihm ausgehende Bedrohung und ihm entgegengebrachte Furcht spürbar. Daneben erscheinen das heroischer klingende Thema von Buda, Attilas Bruder, und das lyrische von Rika, seiner zärtlich geliebten Frau. Der aufpeitschende Schluss desSatzes ist Sinnbild für die gefürchtete Schnelligkeit von Attilas Truppen, mit der sie ihre Opfer eingeholt und ohne Ausnahme getötet haben.Im Mittelpunkt des zweiten Satzes steht Arpad, der eigentliche Begründer des ungarischen Staates. Eineatmosphärisch klingende Einleitung beschwört Emese, die Großmutter Arpads, herauf, die im Traum seine Bestimmung vorhergesehen hatte. Er schlug seinen Gegner, den Prinzen Zalan von Bulgarien, im Kampf in die Flucht und gab dem Land denNamen Magyarorszag.Das Finale ist nach Istvan benannt, dem König, der in Ungarn das Christentum einführte und am ersten Januar 1001 durch Papst Sylvester II. gekrönt wurde. Ein feierlicher Anfang leitet über in einen an Kriegsgetümmelerinnernden Abschnitt, der in lärmendem Getöse endet. Es steht für das Ende des Heiden Koppany, dessen Körper gevierteilt und als abschreckendes Beispiel an die vier Burgen des Landes gesandt wurde. Ein ruhiges, beinahe religiös wirkendesZwischenspiel mündet in die ungarische Nationalhymne. Dieser prachtvolle, mit grandioso überschriebene Schluss hat auch eine symbolische Bedeutung: Nach zehn Jahrhunderten hat Ungarn guten Grund, mit Stolz zurückzublicken und der Zukunft mitZuversicht und Optimismus entgegenzusehen.Die wunderbare Melodie der Nationalhymne erscheint in der Sinfonie auch vorher schon immer wieder, wird meist aber ganz oder teilweise überdeckt. Sie durchläuft das Werk wie ein roter Faden, der anfangs kaumwahrzunehmen ist und erst im Verlauf der Sinfonie immer deutlicher wird. Am Ende krönt sie das Werk in einer letzten prachtvollen Steigerung, in der das Orchester den majestätischen Klang einer Orgel annimmt.

Sinfonia Hungarica est une œuvre de commande pour l’Orchestre d’Harmonie de Kiskunfelegyhaze en Hongrie. Elle est dédiée Ferenc Jankovski (Directeur de l’Orchestre d’Harmonie), Jozsef Ficsor (Maire de la ville de Kiskunfelegyhaze) et Gabriella Kiss.Cette symphonie en trois mouvements retrace l’histoire de la Hongrie. L’ensemble des trois mouvements s’inspire de la vie de personnages historiques clés, de guerres et d’autres événements de grande importance qui ont marqué l’histoire de ce pays. Sinfonia Hungarica célèbre le millénaire de la fondation de l’État hongrois (1001-2001). L’œuvre a été donnée en création mondiale, le 31 mars 2001 Budapest,par l’Orchestre d’Harmonie de Kiskunfelegyhaze placé sous la direction du compositeur.ATTILA, roi des Huns, surnommé “le Fléau de Dieu”, est le personnage central du premier mouvement où règne une atmosphère de peur, de menace, d’agression et de cruauté. Bléda, le frère d’Attila, est associé un thème aux accents plus héro ques, tandis que Kerka, l’épouse bien-aimée du roi des Huns, est représentée par une mélodie lyrique. La fin trépidante de ce mouvement d’ouverture illustre l’effroyable rapidité avec laquelle les troupes d’Attila poursuivaient et tuaient toutes leurs victimes.Le deuxième mouvement est centré sur ARPAD, le fondateur de l’État hongrois. Un passage limpide et aérien ouvre ce mouvement évoquant Émèse, la grand-mère d’Arpad, qui vit en rêve sa destinée future. Après avoir livré bataille contre l’un de ses opposants, le prince bulgare Zalan, et l’avoir chassé des terres magyares, Arpad donne officiellement au territoire le nom de Magyarorszag.Le troisième et dernier mouvement de la symphonie porte le nom de celui qui convertit le pays au christianisme : Étienne Ier (ISTVAN), sacré roi de Hongrie le 1er janvier 1001 par le Pape Sylvestre II. Les mesures d’ouverture, solennelles et majestueuses, mènent un passage dont l’atmosphère belliqueuse s’intensifie pour s’achever en de violents fracas symbolisant la mort

Sinfonia Hungarica, commissionata dalla banda ungherese di Kiskunfelegyahaza, è dedicata al maestro Ferenc Jankovski, al sindaco della citt Jozsef Ficsor e a Gabriella Kiss. La prima mondiale, eseguita dalla banda Kiskunfelegyhaza si è tenutaa Budapest il 31 marzo 2001 sotto la direzione del compositore.Gli eventi salienti della storia dell’Ungheria, come le guerre ed altri avvenimenti importanti, sono tradotti in musica in questa sinfonia strutturata in tre movimenti. Sinfonia Hungaricavuole anche essere un omaggio allo stato ungherese che festeggia il suo millennio nel 2001.ATTILA, re degli Unni, spesso chiamato “il flagello di Dio“ è la figura centrale del primo movimento, caratterizzato dalla paura, dalla minaccia,dall’aggressione e dalla crudelt . Buda, fratello di Attila è associato ad un tema più eroico, mentre Rika, l’amata moglie, è rappresentata da una melodia lirica. L’eccitante finale di questo movimento di apertura illustra la tanto temuta velocit delle truppe di Attila che seminavano paura e morte.Il secondo movimento pone l’accento su ARPAD, il fondatore dello Stato ungherese. Inizia con un passaggio in stile atmosferico che evoca la nonna di Arpad, Emese che aveva sognato e predettoil futuro del nipote. Uno degli oppositori di Arpad, il principe bulgaro Zalan, fu cacciato dopo una battaglia. In seguito, Arpad chiamò ufficialmente il territorio “Magyarorszag”.Il movimento finale prende il nome da ISTVAN, il re che portòil cristianesimo in Ungheria e che fu incoronato da Papa Silvestro II il 1 gennaio, 1001. Un inizio solenne prelude ad un passaggio bellico accentuato da rumori imponenti; questo a simboleggiare l’atroce fine del pagano Koppany il cui corpo futagliato in quattro pezzi e inviato ai quattro castelli del paese come monito. Dopo un intermezzo quieto, quasi religioso, viene presentato l’Inno nazionale ungherese. In questo ampio e grandioso finale riecheggia l’orgoglio dell’Ungheria nelricordare il suo passato e la fiducia con la quale si proietta al futuro.Lo stupendo tema dell’Inno nazionale ungherese è proposto nell’arco dell’intera sinfonia. E’ però spesso parzialmente nascosto e usato come filo conduttore, appena riconoscibileall’inizio ma sempre più ovvio quando la sinfonia si avvicina al suo finale. A conclusione della sinfonia, il sublime inno conduce la banda in un’apoteosi finale, facendo apparire l’organico strumentale come un maestoso organo.

SKU: MB.31076M

ISBN 9781513477695. 8.75x11.75 inches.

Following the model established by Bach and Chopin, George Gershwin (1898 â?? 1937) originally planned to write 24 modern preludes for piano, one in each major and relative minor key. The collection was to be called The Melting Pot as it combined cross-cultural elements of classical, popular, jazz, and blues styles. Already established as a composer of popular songs, Broadway musicals, and masterpieces like Rhapsody in Blue and Concerto in F, Gershwinâ??s frenetic musical activities and an early death intervened, and for various reasonsâ??only three of the completed 5-7 preludes were published in 1927. By omission and circumstance, these three compositions have endured the test of time as Gershwinâ??s Three Preludes.
 
This book presents idiomatic flute/guitar arrangements of Gershwinâ??s iconic Three Preludes. The original keys of the preludes were altered to accommodate drop-D guitar tuning and highlight the strengths and tessituras of the two instruments. The music is written in standard notation only and presented in guitar and flute scores, guitar accompaniment with extensive suggested fingering, and a pull-out flute solo part with guitar cues. Includes access to an outstanding online audio recording by The Cypress Duo, featuring flutist Amanda Hoke and author/guitarist Justin Hoke.
 
Audiences are going to love hearing these preludes rendered by the flute and guitar, particularly â??Prelude IIâ?, in Gershwinâ??s words, â??a sort of blues lullabyâ? that is familiar to many musicians and listeners alike.

SKU: CN.R10194

The story of a sleepless night, Dreams and Fancies uses musical episodes to depict definite pictures: the three accented pulses of the main theme signifying a kind of fate, a demented waltz which breaks down, a love theme in the middle, then a wild jazz party. The end is a huge climax - a grand ceremony in which the lovers marry, but haunted by the three accented pulses of the first theme, representing a dark fate.

This is a story of a sleepless night: fancy is the old English word for a musical fantasy. There are musical episodes, some of which are associated with definite pictures: the three accented pulses of the main theme signifying a kind of fate, a demented waltz which breaks down, a love theme in the middle, then a wild jazz party. The themes all come together as the music becomes more exciting towards the end with thematic interjections appearing as flashbacks. The end is a huge climax - a grand ceremony in which the lovers marry, but haunted by the three accented pulses of the first theme, representing a dark fate. Musically the piece is unifying in two ways. Firstly, all the themes are built from the opening 15 bars. Secondly, the pulse of the music remains virtually constant with each beat around 76 per minute. This means that the tempi need to relate to each other: a difficult task for the conductor!

SKU: CN.R10183

The music of War, Women and Witchcraft is a web with strands of magic, a romantic impression of the Scottish landscape and the sounds of battle using fanfare-like figures and drum effects, and a lovely melody near the end when everyone lives happily ever after.

The titles comes from a book by the Scottish poet, author and composer James Hogg, known as The Ettrick Shepherd. It is the subtitle to his wonderful book The Three Perils of Man. I was commissioned to write a wind band work of this title for the Borders Festival in 1991. The book weaves fact and fantasy togethers around the Scottish Borders in the thirteenth century. I have used a note row based on some of Hogg's melodies and also created my own mixture representing Master Michael Scott, the Black Magician, and his wild adventures, the battle for the castle at Roxburgh and the prize of the Princess' hand to the winner of the battle. The music is a web with strands of magic, a romantic impression of the Scottish landscape and the sounds of battle using fanfare-like figures and drum effects, and a direct quote of a Hogg Strathspey melody near the end when everyone lives happily ever after. -BF.