Programme Notes: Timeless Traditions
Concert 2: Timeless Traditions
Orchestra Toronto’s Timeless Traditions is a heartwarming celebration of the festive spirit and cherished moments of the holiday season. This concert blends classical masterpieces and beloved holiday favorites, from the elegance of Tchaikovsky and Strauss to the festive joy of Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride.” With special guests R. H. Thomson and Harper Rae Asch, the program is a reminder of the magic of togetherness, sure to fill hearts with warmth and nostalgia. Let these timeless melodies and festive cheer bring your loved ones closer in celebrating the season's most treasured traditions.
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov: Polonaise from "Christmas Eve"
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s Polonaise from Christmas Eve is a lively, festive dance from his opera based on Nikolai Gogol’s short story, which features a mischievous devil, a witch, and elements of Ukrainian and Slavic folklore. Subtitled “A Carol Come to Life”, the opera is in five sections and captures a magical Christmas Eve. The Polonaise, the most famous excerpt, portrays a grand dance in a salon at the imperial palace in St. Petersburg, where courtiers celebrate the opulence of the setting and sing in praise of the Tsarina.
Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestration in the Polonaise is rich and vibrant, designed to capture the grandeur and festive spirit of the imperial court. Listen for the bold, rhythmic opening in the brass, which sets the scene with a regal fanfare, immediately evoking the splendor of the palace. The strings play a central role, with sweeping, dance-like melodies that convey the elegant movement of the dancers, while the woodwinds add light, playful flourishes that reflect the spirited atmosphere of the celebration. Notice the interplay between the sections of the orchestra, as Rimsky-Korsakov skillfully alternates dynamics and textures to create a sense of anticipation and excitement, bringing the opulent dance vividly to life.
Georges Bizet: "L'Arlésienne" - Farandole (Suite 2)
Georges Bizet’s Farandole from L’Arlésienne Suite No. 2 is one of the most recognized movements in classical music. Originally written as incidental music for Alphonse Daudet’s play L’Arlésienne (The Girl from Arles) in 1872, Bizet later arranged parts of the score into two orchestral suites. The Farandole, drawn from the second suite, is based on a traditional Provençal dance that builds in energy and drive, embodying the passionate spirit of the French countryside.
This piece masterfully blends two melodies: the ancient Provençal folk tune “March of the Kings” and a lively farandole dance tune. Bizet’s intricate orchestration gradually intertwines and layers these melodies, creating an energetic interplay that culminates in a thrilling climax. The Farandole’s rhythmic pulse, syncopated figures, and sweeping orchestration make it a vivid portrayal of rural life and a testament to Bizet’s gift for melody and orchestration.
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Sleeping Beauty - Panorama, Valse
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty ballet is one of his most beloved compositions, brimming with lush melodies and enchanting orchestration. The Panorama is a magical orchestral interlude that sets up the climax of Act II. It accompanies the Lilac Fairy as she leads Prince Florimund through a misty, enchanted forest to the hidden castle where Princess Aurora lies under a spell, waiting for his kiss to awaken her. Tchaikovsky’s delicate and evocative scoring paints a scene of mystery and anticipation, drawing listeners into the fairy-tale world.
Following this, the Valse (Waltz) returns us to the celebratory atmosphere of Act III, as the characters rejoice at Aurora and Florimund’s wedding. The sweeping, grand dance invites the entire court to join in, capturing the joy and festivity of the occasion. This movement, with its elegant rhythms and swirling melodies, showcases Tchaikovsky’s mastery in creating memorable, danceable themes that reflect the grandeur of the Russian Imperial Ballet. Together, the Panorama and Valse embody the romance, magic, and elegance that make Sleeping Beauty a classic.
J.S. Bach/ Leopold Stokowski: Orchestral Suite no. 3 in D - Air (Air on a G String)
The Air from J.S. Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major is one of the most famous and beloved pieces in classical repertoire. Originally written in the early 18th century, the Air is the second movement of the suite and is known for its serene and lyrical melody. The nickname “Air on a G String” comes from a later arrangement by German violinist August Wilhelmj, who adapted the piece to be played entirely on the G string of the violin, emphasizing its smooth, flowing lines.
In this version, orchestrated by conductor Leopold Stokowski, the Air is given a lush, Romantic-era treatment, with a fuller sound and rich harmonies that highlight the beauty of Bach’s timeless melody. Stokowski’s arrangement showcases his talent for reimagining Baroque works for the modern orchestra, creating a sound world that is expansive yet retains the simplicity and grace of the original. The Air is often associated with tranquility and is cherished for its expressive beauty and calming effect.
Johann Strauss Jr.: The Blue Danube
Johann Strauss Jr.’s The Blue Danube, composed in 1866, is perhaps the most iconic waltz ever written, earning its place as a symbol of Vienna’s musical tradition. Officially titled An der schönen blauen Donau (By the Beautiful Blue Danube), this waltz was initially created as a choral piece for the Vienna Men’s Choral Association. It wasn’t until Strauss adapted it for orchestra that it gained widespread popularity, becoming an international sensation and a staple of concert programs.
The waltz opens with a dreamy, flowing introduction that evokes the gentle rippling of the river, before launching into a series of sweeping, elegant waltz themes that capture the grace and charm of 19th-century Vienna. Each section builds on the last, with rising energy and tempo, showcasing Strauss’s masterful orchestration and gift for melody. The Blue Danube has become synonymous with the glamour of the Viennese ballrooms and remains a favorite at New Year’s concerts around the world, embodying the timeless elegance and joy of the waltz form.
Abigail Richardson-Schulte: Making Light, a holiday tale for all ages (text by Alexis Diamond)
Making Light is a delightful, family-friendly piece by Canadian composer Abigail Richardson-Schulte, with a whimsical and heartwarming narrative written by librettist Alexis Diamond. Commissioned as a new holiday work, Making Light combines spoken word with orchestral music to tell a festive story that appeals to listeners of all ages.
The piece features narration that guides the audience through a charming holiday tale, underscored by Richardson-Schulte’s evocative music. Her playful and imaginative score brings the story to life, blending elements of traditional holiday themes with her unique contemporary style. The result is a captivating experience, filled with moments of joy, wonder, and the spirit of the season. Making Light is a celebration of storytelling, music, and the magic of the holidays.
Johnny Marks/ Arr. Richard Hayman: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (Lucks Edition)
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, composed by Johnny Marks in 1949, is one of the most enduring holiday songs, inspired by the classic story of a reindeer who finds his place guiding Santa’s sleigh with his bright, shining nose. Marks’s catchy melody and playful lyrics quickly made the song a holiday favorite, recorded by numerous artists and becoming a staple in Christmas celebrations around the world.
In this spirited orchestral arrangement by Richard Hayman, the charm and cheerfulness of the original song are brought to life with lush, festive instrumentation. Hayman, known for his brilliant orchestrations and popular arrangements, adds a touch of sparkle and whimsy, using colorful orchestral textures to capture the playful spirit of the song.
Robert W. Krogstad: The Bells of Christmas
The Bells of Christmas, arranged by Norwegian-American composer and arranger Robert W. Krogstad, is a festive medley that brings together some of the most beloved and iconic Christmas carols. Known for his expansive orchestrations and ability to blend melodies seamlessly, Krogstad’s arrangement captures the spirit and joy of the holiday season, creating a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere.
This piece is distinguished by its sophisticated and imaginative orchestration, utilizing a wide range of orchestral colors to evoke the sound of ringing bells. Glockenspiel, chimes, and delicate woodwinds add a bright, sparkling effect throughout the medley. Krogstad’s clever transitions between carols, combined with sweeping string passages and grand brass fanfares, amplify the joyous energy of each tune. Moments of softer, gentler orchestration provide a beautiful contrast, evoking the serene and reflective aspects of the season.
The harp and celesta bring a magical, twinkling quality, reminiscent of falling snow or distant church bells, while the percussion section reinforces the rhythmic drive and the ‘bell’ motif that ties the medley together. This arrangement transforms familiar Christmas melodies into a cinematic experience, capturing the warmth, nostalgia, and festive cheer that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Leroy Anderson: A Christmas Festival
Leroy Anderson’s A Christmas Festival, composed in 1950, is one of the most well-recognized holiday medleys, beloved for its joyful celebration of Christmas classics. Anderson, a master of light orchestral music, crafted this piece to capture the festive spirit and nostalgia of the season, blending together a series of well-known carols with his signature flair for orchestration and melodic development.
The medley features a seamless flow of familiar tunes, including Joy to the World, Deck the Halls, God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, Good King Wenceslas, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night, Jingle Bells, and O Come, All Ye Faithful. Anderson’s clever transitions and dynamic contrasts keep the momentum lively and engaging, making the piece a favorite for audiences and orchestras alike.
Listeners can look out for the distinct use of harmonic palettes throughout the medley. The brass section opens with a triumphant fanfare in Joy to the World, while the woodwinds introduce the playful dance of Deck the Halls. Anderson uses strings to bring a tender, lyrical quality to Silent Night, creating a moment of calm reflection before launching into the spirited, toe-tapping rhythms of Jingle Bells. The final section builds to a grand, exuberant conclusion with O Come, All Ye Faithful, leaving listeners with a feeling of warmth.
Leroy Anderson: Sleigh Ride
Composed in 1948, Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride has become a quintessential holiday favorite, loved for its catchy melody and evocative orchestration. Interestingly, Anderson wrote Sleigh Ride during a heatwave in the summer, yet the piece perfectly captures the playful, brisk feeling of a winter sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Although it was not originally intended as a Christmas song, its cheerful, festive nature quickly made it a staple of holiday music.
The piece is characterized by its bright, lively tempo and distinctive use of percussion to mimic the sound of jingling sleigh bells, creating an instant feeling of being outdoors on a crisp winter day. Anderson’s clever orchestration includes the iconic “clip-clop” rhythm in the woodblock, simulating the sound of horse hooves trotting along, while the trumpet solo features a playful neighing sound, mimicking a horse. The strings and brass provide a sweeping, joyful melody that feels like gliding through the snow, and the piece ends with a rousing final chord that leaves listeners smiling.
