Fanfare 2000

Hymnus was commissioned by the Wilhelmina Easterein Fanfare Orchestra in the Autumn of 1999 for their performance at the World Music Contest Kerkrade. The commission was the result of a collaboration between the composer and the thenmusical director Marten van der Wal. The exact meaning of the word Hymnus is not known but it is taken in this presentation to mean hymn or hymn-like. The melodic material is organic and grows from an initial unison tone. Thisinterval is gradually expanded to form the cell F E C F a semitone third fifth. The only other melodic motif is the ascending three-note pattern spanning a major third. This is the second of his compositions to use this ascending motif theother being Fanfare for a Bright New Age for Brass Band and Organ also of 2000. These characteristic intervals appear in many contrasting moods and guises throughout the piece. The opening unison notes are intended to convey as sense ofpower and magnificence like the first sounds at the dawning of the universe. After the immense power a period of stunned silence and reverence. The evolution of the hymn melody incorporates a variety of moods and atmospheres sometimes expressing much joy and celebration whilst also suggesting periods of intense savagery or prayerful contemplation. The hymn builds as the piece progresses and is finally stated in its complete form at letter W. The official worldpremiere of the work was given by Wilhelmina Easterein at the World Music Contest 2001. Whilst the composer was unable to attend in person he was able to enjoy the premier simultaneously transmitted via a mobile phone from the audience! Conductors Note The tempo indications are to be viewed as a guide rather than a literal instruction. Within the music there is an innate sense of pulse and metre lending itself to considerable rubato. Melody is king and all else is mere support and decoration careful attention must therefore be given to balance.

Don McLean’s success is largely due to the remarkable song American Pie released in 1971. In 2000 American Pie topped the charts again this time recorded by Madonna when her version achieved number 1 status almost everywhere in the world.

Elegy for Band-The initial idea was for a millennium piece which it is but rather than add to the many celebratory pieces that have understandably been written to salute the 3rd millennium Philip Sparke thought it would perhaps be appropriate to think about the aspects of life that are constantly with us (such as faith and philosophy) rather than the exciting changes that the year 2000 has undeniably wrought. This calm meditative work will bring a moment of serenity and reflection to any concert.

Rares sont les artistes à célébrer 50 ans de succès dans l?univers impitoyable du show-biz. Cliff Richard a réussit cette performance exceptionnelle en étant au sommet des classements britanniques durant 6 décennies d?affilée (1950-2000). Ce medley rassemble cinq de ses plus grands succès : Congratulations Power to All Our Friends Living Doll Lucky Lips et We Don?t Talk Anymore.

Rares sont les artistes à célébrer 50 ans de succès dans l?univers impitoyable du show-biz. Cliff Richard a réussit cette performance exceptionnelle en étant au sommet des classements britanniques durant 6 décennies d?affilée (1950-2000). Ce medley rassemble cinq de ses plus grands succès : Congratulations Power to All Our Friends Living Doll Lucky Lips et We Don?t Talk Anymore.