2(II=picc).2.2.2(II=dbn)-4.2.2.btrbn.1-timp.perc(3):glsp/crots/xyl/vib/marimba/t.bells/guiro/tamb/mark.tr/6tom-t/SD/2log.dr(hi +lo)/BD/susp.cym/susp.cyms(lg)/tam-t-harp-pft-str
Abbreviations (PDF)
Boosey & Hawkes
- Vigoroso (crotchet = 100)
- Slow and expressive (crotchet = 60)
- Lively (crotchet = 78)
- Gentle (crotchet = 60)
The first movement begins with a quick orchestral explosion from which the trumpet emerges with wild material, alternating these outbursts with more lyrical passages.
The second movement is slow and expressive, the quasi-improvisatory music twists and winds around a simple, moving bed of harmony in the strings. The section ends with an orchestral chorale.
The third movement is playful and fun. Stabbing gestures in the orchestra are punctuated by runs and jumps in the solo trumpet part.
The final movement is the longest and most expressive. It begins with a simple melody in the trumpet which opens out into something darker and pained. This is followed by a struggle between the soloist and orchestra, building to an intense climax. As the dust settles the trumpet murmurs through the orchestral texture. We then revisit the chorale material from the end of the second movement which grows to reach a final crescendo.
© Mark Simpson 2024
Reproduction Rights
This programme note can be reproduced free of charge in concert programmes with a credit to the composer