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Concord Band commission
(1988)
James Curnow, composer
Welsh Variants was our second commission by James Curnow.
The great success of Five Concord Diversions made Curnow a prime
candidate for a second commission.
Curnow used the Welsh folk song "Suo Gan" as the basis of a theme and
variations.
A lively introduction precedes the appearance of the theme and then three
variations are heard.
WMT
The Concord Band commissioned James Curnow to compose Welsh Variants
in 1988. The composer conducted the premier performance of
this work in Concord on October 22nd, 1988. This single-movement work is
based on the Welsh folk song "Suo Gan." Following an energetic
opening section, the main theme is stated by the oboe in an andante
section. Four variations of this theme then follow, ending with a
majestic final statement using all of the forces of the band.
WGM
Welsh Variants by James Curnow was commissioned by the Concord Band in
1988, when the Band was under the baton of Music Director William M. Toland.
The composer conducted the world premier of the composition on October 22nd,
1988 in Concord.
Over the years, James Curnow has written several other outstanding works for
the Concord Band, including Overture to a Winter Festival and
Five Concord Diversions for band and brass quintet.
The main theme of Welsh Variants is "Suo Gan," a traditional Welsh
folk song, also featured in the film Empire of the Sun.
The theme is first presented in a brilliant style by the woodwinds.
Curnow then transforms the theme into a number of contrasting variations
utilizing the full resources of the symphonic band, as well as featuring
many solo instruments.
Welsh Variants is one of the favorite Concord Band commissions among
many members of the band.
WGM
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