SYMPHONY NO. 3
Symphonies, Level 5
SYMPHONY NO. 3 – QUEBEC MOSAIC
This wind symphony is a musical impression of the four distinct seasons in Quebec. It is inspired by rich musical folklore of Quebecois folk songs and the years that I spent living in Montreal and exploring “La Belle Province”.
The symphony begins with an aerial flight over the countryside as it transforms into a sea of golden yellows and blazing reds. This stunning backdrop provides a stage for the many playful activities of the season before nature slowly moves towards winter and goes to sleep.
Primarily textural, the second movement depicts a cool, crisp winter’s day where everything glistens, sounds are muted and seem to disappear into the snow. This lustrous landscape stretches for as far as the eye can see and there is a sense of peace and calm.
After a long sleep, nature is coming to life – this movement opens with flowers bursting forth, leaves emerging on the trees, birds singing and colour returning to the landscape. Along with the exuberant feeling of joy and renewal there is also a sense of reverence and wonder. This music pays tribute to the magnificent splendour of nature.
The fourth movement is a jubilant celebration of music. A crowd gathers to attend a festival – on the first stage they hear a woodwind ensemble. Then, they move to the second stage where a saxophone quartet is playing and finally to the third stage where there is a brass ensemble. The musicians then bounce the melodies around between the three stages – at first there is a lively interplay and then the tempo slows. Off in the distance a marching band is approaching. As they march closer and closer, the music builds and intensifies into a flourish from each of the stages and a final crescendo to the festive finale.
Commissioned by The Band of the 22nd Regiment, Captain Vincent Roy Commanding Officer. In celebration of their 100th Anniversary.
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