Stramash (2018)
Saxophone Orchestra
‘Stramash’ is a Doric Scots word used to describe a celebration or party, often a wild one. This piece pretty much confirms the nature of this title with its celebratory atmosphere throughout.
The piece can be roughly divided into several continuous episodes: firstly a fast, rhythmic section spearheaded by fanfares. Next, a slower, more pensive section with a lyrical melodic head. The first soprano introduces the third section by playing a solo reel, which is then humorously commented upon with various drones, vamps and improvisations. A short, haunting interlude follows as this last section dies away, and following a slow build-up, the recap of the first section brings reinforced fervour, now expanded with the lyrical melody of the second section. The climax sees the reel melody briefly iterated once more, and the piece ends on a spectacular high!
PERFORMANCES:
Première: 23 June 2019 - Inverurie, Aberdeenshire - Aberdeen Saxophone Orchestra (dir. Richard Ingham)