This
extended concert overture was successfully performed by the
Eastman Philharmonia under Prof. David Effron on the evening
of October 6 1997, in the presence of William Johnson, Mayor
of Rochester. It was composed to celebrate the 75th Anniversary
of the founding of the Eastman School of Music.
Four local melodies give rise directly and indirectly to all
the themes in this music, as well as being quoted in various
guises. They are, in order of appearance – (though not
necessarily in these keys):
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1) The 'ophicleide solo' from ROCHESTER ARCADE QUICK-STEP by
W.C. Glynn – a local wind band hit from 1844.
2) The hymn tune ROCHESTER taken from a 'shape-note' hymnal
from the early 19th century, exhibiting the attractive parallel
harmonies typical of that style.
3) The anonymous canon DONA NOBIS PACEM traditionally sung by
the whole school at the annual 'Holiday Sing' before Christmas.
4) The opening and closing phrases of THE GENESEE, the 'alma
mater' of the University of Rochester from 1892, with words
by T.T. Swinburne. The Genesee is the once pristine river that
flows through Rochester to Lake Ontario. |
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These pieces
were suggested to me by Dr. Sion Honea of the Sibley Library.
As well as their role as the melodic and structural source of
this overture, their 19th century origin colours its musical
language.
Eight years
on, looking back at 'Eastman Overture' I can see that in addition
to being the intended nostalgic tribute to Rochester and the
Eastman School it is also a record of my feelings several months
into my American experience.
Unfortunately
my recording of the premiere of this music is lost. I have however
compiled a basic MIDI simulation which give will give some idea
of the music which I revised in 2002.