CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE
Bach on the Rock is offering a rich musical experience at two concerts this weekend, featuring pieces from three notable composers who wrote music in the 20th century
Set for Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m. at All Saints by-the-Sea, the concert titled A Musical Journey from Romanticism to Modern Day
includes works by Georges Enescu, Carl Nielsen and Ola Gjeilo. Each piece is intimate and approachable and creates a blend of contrasting styles.
Enescu, a celebrated Romanian composer, spent much of his life in Paris. His work often incorporates the folk music of his homeland. Enescu’s Decet, Opus 14, written in 1906, is a post-Romantic piece written for an unusual ensemble of 10 parts. The decet doubles the traditional wind quintet — flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and horn — producing a vibrant mix of sound. It may remind listeners of divertimentos for wind instruments by Mozart or serenades by Brahms. It has a relaxed style resulting from the way themes are presented.
Nielsen, one of Denmark’s most prominent composers, wrote his Kleine Suite for strings early in his career. This piece was first performed in 1888. From Neilson’s Romantic period, it is one of his most often-performed works. It may remind the listener of the music of the Norwegian composer, Edvard Grieg. The Kleine Suite moves through contrasting moods and tones.
Gjeilo, a contemporary Norwegian composer, brings a modern element to the program with his Sunrise Mass. Known for his cinematic, film score-inspired style, Gjeilo combines choir and string ensemble to produce deeply emotional music. The themes of sunrise and the universe in this work create a powerful experience. Its reflective tone offers a calming conclusion to the concert.
This concert, led by artistic director Jean-Sébastien Lévesque, offers a rare opportunity to experience three distinct styles in one evening.
Tickets are available at the church and from Bach on the Rock members.