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Work

1993
Duration:
23' 00"
Instrumentation:
vlns I and II; vlas; cellos; basses
Contents:
Five movements: 1. Flourish; 2. Romance; 3. Dance; 4. Aria; 5. Finale

Samples

application/pdf,497k Score (497k) Pages 1,6,12,20,30 © David Farquhar Estate
audio/mpeg,453k Recording (453k) No description
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Programme Note

The titles of the five movements give the outline of a Serenade in the most literal and traditional meaning of the word. The Flourish aims to capture the lady’s attention; through the Romance, Dance, and Aria the suitor presses his cause, and in the Finale the couple celebrate a successful outcome. I wouldn’t, however, suggest that this story line be taken too literally! The music, I hope, speaks for itself. The Aria gives the double-bass a chance to shine as a soloist, and the Finale refers back to earlier material, then skips for joy, and finally relaxes into a tranquil ‘apotheosis’. This Serenade was commissioned by Denis and Verna Adam to celebrate their fortieth wedding anniversary. The first performance was given by the NZ Chamber Orchestra in September 1993.

Commissioned:
Commissioned by The Adam Foundation for the New Zealand Chamber Orchestra
Difficulty:
Advanced
Dedication:
To Mrs. Verna Adam

Performance History

World Premiere for P: Serenade for Strings; NZCO c. Armstrong 240993 24 Sep 1993 Performed by the New Zealand Chamber Orchestra dir. Armstrong; Adam Concert Room, Victoria University, Wellington
NZSO Chamber Orchestra

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