The cultural heritage of the Celts is still alive in the so-called “Celtic fringe”, namely in Wales, Scotland, and especially in Ireland. This suite for wind band relies on the Celtic tradition as a promising musical aspect for the contemporary wind band. It consists of three old Irish melodies handed down through the generations.
The first one, “March” is a traditional Irish march with a slower 6/8 beat. Led by a characteristically accented drum that adds drive to the entire movement, the drone effect of al Uilleann bagpipe provides a ringing call to courage.
It is followed by a beautiful and nostalgic “Air” entitled “Yellow Village Gate” in Gaelic, the official Celtic language of Ireland. Traditionally, fiddle and Uilleann pipes could play a passionate duet. Here, a solo piccolo presents the impression of a simple fife.
The last movement, ”Reel”, is a typical Irish dance of very quick tempo. Maintaining the pace from the beginning to the end, the intensified motion combining duple and 6/8 meter drives to the coda’s bold conclusion.
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