Product Description
In Memoriam, for chamber orchestra, is a short but powerful work. It was specifically composed in memory of the composer's father, but the work can be used to the reflect any loss, or similar sentiment (such as remembrance). The point of departure is the pounding repeated tones (the note D, for Death) at the start of the Lacrymosa of Benjamin Britten's Sinfonia da Requiem; a work which mourned the death of both its composer's parents. Throughout this In Memoriam, the repeated pedal note D is literally ever-present and obsessive, like the looming of death itself, and the percussion section take a somewhat military role. The main melodic idea is a twelve-note theme stated at the beginning, though the music is not strictly serial. This theme undergoes various transformations and orchestrations, depicting the many facets of a character who essentially remains themself. More optimistic interludes feature woodwind solos, but the note D always remains. A passage of stark two-part counterpoint is followed by the disintegration of the main theme before a varied return of previous material. Then follows the inevitable dominance of the note D, in crescendo, before the work abruptly ends, frozen still. The work is highly accessible for both performers and audience. This PDF document is fully complete for performance, with a conductor's full score, followed by each instrumental part (including tranposed parts as necessary). Note that the 3rd & 4th horn parts are optional in this work. They can be omitted, or included (especially if the string section is larger). These 3rd & 4th horn parts are included in the set, in F. However, they could be substituted by 2 trombones. Accordingly, these parts are also provided in C (bass clef), if played by 2 trombones.
Duration: 5 minutes 30 seconds.
Registered with PRS (Performing Rights Society, UK).
Composer's website: www.roberthowardmusic.co.uk
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