Intermediate Orchestra

Programme notes

This afternoon NYIO will be tackling an enormously challenging programme. It has been fantastic to see the progression made over the course of the term and the orchestra has done amazingly well at dealing with some very difficult pieces of music, normally performed by adult orchestras.

1. Tango in D

We begin with the Tango in D by Albeniz, which evokes warm feelings of Spain. Originally composed for piano, the piece was orchestrated by Sir Malcolm Arnold in 1953 and has become the most performed Tango in concert music. The main rich melody for the strings is interspersed with woodwind countermelodies and colouring from the brass and percussion.

2. Harry Potter Symphonic Suite

John Williams' music for the Harry Potter films is full of well known tunes and magical effects. This piece is no mean feat for the orchestra and each section gets their turn at leading the festivities. Rapid notes are regularly used to create a backdrop to support the main theme of each section of the piece.

3. Capriccio Italien

Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italien is an enormously difficult piece and also very long, presenting huge challenges for every section of the orchestra. The piece itself was inspired by Tchaikovsky's visit to Italy in 1880 and the different sounds that captured his imagination whilst he was there: a distant bugle call, singing in the streets, a local band, and a lively Tarantella from the carnival. Well done again to the orchestra for taking on such a big work!