Description
Lights flash across the sky each year as the Draconid Meteor shower dazzles all who witness it. Composer Sean O’Loughlin musically depicts this awe-inspiring natural occurrence with “Draconids.”
Program Notes
Inspired by the meteor shower of the same name, “Draconids” is an exciting and dramatic work for the developing Concert Band. With a mysterious opening, it sets the tone for some cinematic moments to come. The slow opening melody becomes the focus of the fast music at M.19.
With its major IV chord amidst a minor key, the music has a lift and lightness as it moves through the minor tapestry. The music is equally aggressive and subtle throughout. There is some interplay at M.31, where the melody is simultaneously played at tempo and at augmentation to create important counterpoint. The low voices take over at M.41, which gives way to a build-up section at M.47. A recap of the counterpoint at M.67 signals powerful momentum all the way to the exciting conclusion.
