Cat No. JM37086
Price £53.00
Composer: James Curnow
Category: LIGHT CONCERT MUSIC

Commencing with a plaintive theme first introduced by the Flugel Horn, the Prelude is set in the Dorian mode. This theme strives to capture musically the stark yet beautiful landscape of the Central Plains that have been the home of Eastern Illinois University for one-hundred years. The theme gradually works its way through several contrasting variations and culminates in a declamatory chorale. A more intimate section follows, which features several soloists accompanied by various small ensembles. As the Prelude draws to a close, the Flugel Horn is heard once again presenting the opening theme in a subdued but intense manner. This passage gradually evolves into the very spirited and energetic Celebration. Honoring the 100th Anniversary of the founding of Eastern Illinois University (Charleston, Illinois), this movement features two contrasting themes. One theme is fanfare-like, and is first presented by the horns. The other theme is more lyrical and flowing and first emerges in the comets. After the themes are metamorphosed through several diverse variations and mixed meter changes, the main theme of the Prelude is recapitulated. This recapitulation precedes an exciting and dramatic finale.