Pagan Overture, Op. 2 (orchestra)

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Instrumentation

Bassoon
3
Clarinet
2
Flute
2
French Horn
4
Harp
1
Oboe
2
Percussion
1
Strings
1
Timpani
1
Trombone
3
Trumpet
2
Tuba
1
Xylophone
1

Additional Information

Much of the overture’s musical material is derived from the opening seven-note idea (a). For example, the rhythmic interjection that follows is based on notes 4-6. The first contrast in mood comes with a lyrical theme on the cor anglais (b), although it is indebted to the shape of notes 2-6 of (a).

The overture explores and (almost) resolves the conflict between moods, making use of classical sonata principle but without allowing final victory to the first idea. Indeed, towards the end, (a) begins to take on more and more of the character of (b) amid reminders of its former self.

The title Pagan Overture was chosen by the composer for reasons he no longer recalls clearly: undoubtedly, certain passages in Thomas Hardy’s novel The Return of the Native were influential.

First performed Middleton Hall, University of Hull (cond. R. Marchant).

Details

Year
Minutes
11

Recordings

Date published
March 2021
Date recorded
24–27 November 2020
Performers
Paul Mann & Liepāja Symphony Orchestra
Venue
Great Amber Concert Hall, Liepāja, Latvia.