Repertoire
Darius Milhaud: La creátion du monde (1923) 16′
Kenneth Hesketh: Danceries I & II (2001-2010) 33′
Artists
Barcelona Symphonic Band
José R. Pascual-Vilaplana, conductor
Program
All civilisations have used foundational legends and sacred texts to explain the creation of the universe, the planet, living beings and humanity itself. These tales have been a source of artistic inspiration since time immemorial. One example is the African legend on which the ballet La creation du monde is based, with music by Darius Milhaud and a libretto by Blaise Cendrars. In 1922, the French composer travelled to New York, and the Afro-American jazz music that he heard in Harlem is one of the key attractions of this splendid score.
DOWNLOAD THE PROGRAM HERE For the two sets of Danceries, Kenneth Hesketh reinterpreted different folk and popular tunes from a collection by a 17th century dancing master. Interplay between past and present is sparked off, taking us from the reception rooms of yesteryear’s British aristocracy to contemporary times, with rich, spectacular colours and instrumental sonority.
