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Title	Arethusa (Fantasy for Concert Band)
Article no.	4076304
Category	Concert/wind/brass band
Subcategory	Concert music
Instrumentation	Ha (concert/wind band)
Format	PrtStm (full score and parts)
Country of publication	Germany (de)
Publisher *	Rundel Musikverlag GmbH
Publisher's article no. *	MVSR 2671
Year of publication	2014
Composer	Nijs, Johan
Difficulty level	3
Evaluation level of countries	D3 (German medium level)
Duration	5:00
Additional info/contents	“Arethusa“ was commissioned as a piece for the so-called “Stundenchor” as utilized in band contests in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg. Instead of an obligatory piece the bands can chose to perform an unknown composition which they may rehearse for only one hour before they present it to the jurors. The grade of the “Stundenchor” piece is typically one level below the regular grade of the band. Johan Nijs’ “Arethusa” perfectly suits the “Stundenchor” criteria. It contains technical and rhythmical challenges, but also offers the opportunity to sonorously play together. Emerging passages vary in key and tempi, demanding the utmost concentration of the musicians and the director. Despite all the challenges, “Arethusa” always remains at medium grade level and does not make any impossible demands. Of course “Arethusa” is not only a great “Stundenchor” but also an impressive concert piece. The title of the piece relates to an old myth about the nymph Arethusa. She does not return the love of the river god Alpheios, who still keeps pursuing her. On the run Arethusa begs her mistress Diana for help, who transforms her into a well and sends her to Sicily. Still, the waters of Alpheios keep searching for his beloved in the oceans. Johan Nijs’ composition is not a programmatic setting of this mystic story, yet the music contains just as many exciting changes and dramatic moments.
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Sample score *	click here
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Programme notes *: The nymph Arethusa from Greek mythology is a fascinating creature that is often depicted in art, literature and music. Arethusa was originally a consort of the goddess Artemis and a loyal follower of the maiden goddess. Her story revolves around an enchanted spring and a dramatic transformation that she experiences. In the music world, the story of Arethusa has been taken up and interpreted in various works. Composers have drawn inspiration from her mystical and tragic story to create musical works that explore themes of love, transformation and beauty. A well-known example is the opera "Dafne" by Jacopo Peri, which is one of the earliest known operas ever. In this opera, the story of Arethusa and her transformation into a spring is presented musically. The music expresses the beauty and grace of the nymph as she transforms in the spring and escapes her fate. Another example is the symphonic poem “Arethusa” by Camille Saint-Saëns. This impressive orchestral composition takes the listener on a sonic journey through the history of the nymph. The music is full of grace and elegance as it captures the dramatic events and emotions of Arethusa's story. In addition, the story of Arethusa has also inspired modern composers and artists to create their own interpretation in music. From contemporary operas to symphonic works and even pop and rock songs, traces of Arethusa's story and her timeless appeal can be found in the music world. Overall, the connection between the nymph Arethusa and music shows the timeless fascination and inspiration of Greek mythology. Her story of love, transformation and beauty remains an inexhaustible source of creativity for composers and musicians around the world. Quelle/Source: musicainfo.net (KI) Information: Rundel Musikverlag Wikipedia Tags: Ancient Cultures Rivers and lakes Spirits and supernatural powers Fairy tales, legends, stories

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	Format
	Arethusa (Fantasy for Concert Band) (concert/wind band), full score and parts
	Arethusa (Fantasy for Concert Band) (concert/wind band), full score
	Westcoast, audio CD

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