Programme Note
Gallipoli was composed in memory of the World War I battle that took place between Turkey and Anzacs, symbolizing as a whole, the mutual good relations of the countries of Turkey, Australia and New Zealand, which are in friendly relations in our day. The message given by Turkey’s leader Ataturk after the war was one of humanism and friendship. This is still commemorated by both the ANZACs and the Turks with great importance every year.
The idea of writing this solo work for trumpet was born when Erden Bilgen met the composer in Auckland. It became formalized with the composer’s visit to Gallipoli in 2001 and a subsequent meeting between the two in Istanbul. Written in rhapsodic form in one movement, the music is not intended to interpret the horrors and negative aspects of war, but more the emotions and reflective times of the young ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corp.) and Turkish troops summoned to war on Turkish ground.
The opening trumpet fanfare is the call to war. In the middle section the composer uses a traditional folk theme from the Turkish region of Canakkale. There is a short cadenza and the orchestration requires a large symphony orchestra.
- Commissioned:
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Comissioned by Erden Bilgen, one of Europe's leading trumpeters and a member of the Ensemble de Cologne
- Influences:
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- Dedication:
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For my friend Erden Bilgen
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