The symphonic poem, Air Lointain (Distant Song) by Alexandre Béon, prominently features the English horn as a solo instrument within the orchestral setting. Inspired by the poem of the same name by Pierre Reyniel (pen name of Louise Perny) which explores themes of distance, longing, and nostalgia, Béon creates an immersive musical experience that transports listeners to a distant, otherworldly, realm. The prominence of the English horn as a solo instrument, with its rich, melancholic, warm timbre often associated with expressions of longing or yearning, is a fitting choice for conveying the emotional depth of the piece.
AIR LOINTAIN
Poem by Pierre Reyniel (pen name of Louise Perny)
C'est un air lointain que je dus entendre
Au temps où l'enfent que j'aime chantait.
C'est un aur lointain... je sais qu'il était
Très lent, et surtout étrangement tendre.
It was a distant tune that I must have heard
At the time when the child I love sang.
It's a distant dream... I know he was
Very slow, and above all strangely tender.
A collection of music to accompany silent film scenes
Gaston Borch compiled, arranged, and edited by W.C. Rohl Catalogue number: 013CH052424A
A collection of five pieces for orchestra by French composer, Gaston Borch (1871-1926) written to accompany creepy, suspenseful, mysterious, and supernatural scenes for silent films. A prolific composer, cellist, conductor, and arranger, Borch moved to the United States in the early 1900s where he significantly contributed to the American musical landscape. He became particularly known for his work in the burgeoning field of silent film music, composing scores that enhanced the emotional impact of films. Borch’s music was characterized by its melodic richness and dramatic expressiveness, which made it ideal for the cinema. His ability to craft music that perfectly matched the narrative and emotional arcs of films made him a sought-after composer in the industry. The entire collection — or any number of the individual selections — would make an ideal addition to any Halloween-themed program. Score and parts.
George Whitefield Chadwick Catalogue number: 001CC022924A
George Whitefield Chadwick’s Elegy – originally composed for organ and later orchestrated by the composer – bears the dedication, “In Memoriam Horatio Parker.” The Elegy is a mournful and reflective composition written in memory of Horatio Parker, an influential American composer in his own right, and Chadwick’s colleague, friend, and one-time pupil. Chadwick and Parker were part of the Second New England School of composers, a group that aimed to establish a distinctly American musical identity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Chadwick’s Elegy reflects his deep respect and admiration for Parker, as well as his own sense of loss at Parker’s passing. The piece embodies somber and contemplative emotions, expressed through lush harmonies, poignant melodies, and moments of dramatic intensity.
A captivating symphonic poem that immerses the listener in a world of passion and emotional intensity. With lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and a dynamic orchestration, Ganne weaves a musical narrative that explores the overwhelming sensations of ecstasy. From its gentle and evocative introduction to the powerful and dramatic climaxes, the composition takes the listener on a journey through a range of emotions. The work includes solo passages for the first-chair violin and cello players and a prominent part for the harp. An optional organ obligato part is included as are alternate B-flat clarinet parts transposed from the original parts for Clarinet in A.
Sir Alexander Campbell Mackenzie Catalogue number: 001CC082024A
Alexander Campbell Mackenzie’s Britannia: A Nautical Overture, Op. 52 celebrates Britain’s seafaring heritage and naval legacy with vibrant Romanticism. Opening with a bold, majestic theme symbolizing naval supremacy, the overture weaves sweeping melodies, rousing brass fanfares, and rhythmic energy to evoke the grandeur of maritime life. Folk-like tunes, including “Rule, Britannia!” and “The Sailor’s Hornpipe,” add nationalistic pride and playful vitality. Contrasting sections capture adventure, heroism, and reflection, building to a triumphant climax that cements Britannia as a stirring homage to Britain’s nautical tradition.
A brief tone poem by Ole Olsen inspired by the region of Finnmark in the northernmost part of Norway, depicting a stunning combination of majestic mountains, deep fjords, pristine rivers, and vast tundra, evoking the raw beauty of the far north.
