Op. 19, No. 1
Svatba!
for Wind Ensemble
2024 || Grade V || ca. 3:30
Score: $24.99 || Full Set: $99.99
“Svatba!” is a beautiful celebration of Bulgarian culture—based around a unique interpretation of a traditional Bulgarian folk song, the work captures the stark sonorities and powerful harmony of the Balkans in the context of a symphonic wind ensemble. This piece is the opening movement of a larger work called Songs of Bulgaria.
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Piccolo, 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, English Horn, 2 Bassoons, 3 Clarinets in Bb, Bass Clarinet, Contrabass Clarinet, Soprano Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone
3 Trumpets in Bb, 4 Horns in F, 3 Trombones (1 Bass Trombone), Euphonium B.C., Tuba
String Bass
Timpani, 5 Percussionists
Premiere: April 18th, 2024 by the Austin Community College Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Albert Lo.
Svatba! (“The Wedding”) is the opening movement of Songs of Bulgaria—a large-scale work for the symphonic wind ensemble inspired by the vibrant traditions of Bulgarian folk music. This movement is a jubilant celebration of Bulgarian life and culture, with many unique interpretations of a traditional choral melody from the Balkans. The work opens with rousing and powerful melodies in the reed section, which develops with the sharp and asymmetrical nature characteristic of Bulgarian folk music. These rhythmic patterns, combined with bold harmonies, carry the infectious energy of the celebration.
At its heart, Svatba! is a portrayal of unity and community, underscored by the music's rhythmic drive and harmonic richness. The lively dance motifs that pervade the movement symbolize the collective joy of the community coming together, while the contrasts in texture and melody hint at the deeper spiritual and cultural significance of generational Balkan tradition. In this vibrant and dynamic opening to Songs of Bulgaria, the essence of Bulgarian folk tradition is reimagined through the wind ensemble, blending the old with the new to create an atmosphere of celebration, unity, and life.