Solo Percussion, 3232, 4331, Timp., 2 Perc., Harp, Strings
Publisher
Manuscript
Program Notes
The journey through Celtic Visions and legends is composed in two main sections with seven separate “scenes.” [Section 1 is focused on Celtic "topics;" whereas Section 2 is focused on a more Celtic "tonality."] The first half of the musical voyage contains legendary Celtic images and mythological creatures, depicted over a magical landscape. The second half of scenes is comprised of festive, romantic music; including traditional fiddle tunes, a Celtic “Air” and exciting battle music.
The Celtic excursion begins in the city of Aberdeen; situated on Scotland’s northeastern shore. (Suitably, Glennie was brought up on a farm in Aberdeenshire, 30 miles from the city).
1 | Aberdeen Waves
Aberdeen Waves’ oceanic sounds and glorious flourishes, symbolize both: a welcoming view of the long, sandy Balmedie Beach coastline on the North Sea; as well as a valediction as embarking on the epic journey.
2 | Will-o’-the-wisp
The first Celtic legend encountered is the Will-o’-the-wisp. Also known as “Fool’s Fire,” these ghostly lights have a mischievous and often malevolent nature. As the folklore goes, the lights look like a flickering lamp hovering over damp ground. Receding when approached, the light lures unwary travelers from the well-trodden paths into perilous marshes. The fast runs, and short, gleaming sounds, all set amongst a creepy atmosphere, illustrate this apparition.
3 | The Selkie & Kelpie
The second of the “legendary” visions are of the Selkie and Kelpie. Both are mythological, shape-shifting creatures in Irish and Scottish mythology. Tales read that Selkies are known to transform themselves from seals to humans. Stories concerning Selkies are generally romantic tragedies. While Selkies are known as kindly and romantic beings, the Kelpie is a much more treacherous demon. The Kelpie is a supernatural water-horse from Celtic folklore that is believed to haunt the rivers and lochs of Scotland. It acts as a lost pony to draw in its unsuspecting victims. Dark sounds of this swift horse-like Kelpie follow the tender Selkie mood. With the orchestra in full flight, the scene races towards a death-defying conclusion!
4 | Cape Breton Highlands
Across the Atlantic Ocean, the second half of the work begins in Cape Breton Highlands. Cape Breton is well known for its traditional fiddle music, which was brought to North America by Scottish immigrants during the Highland Clearances. The customary sounds of the bodhrán drum and violin joyously portray this rambunctious Celtic music.
5 | Air of Inverness
The fifth scene is another traditional Celtic style of song: the “Air.” Air of Inverness is a serene “mood picture” set in Inverness County, the Northwestern District of Cape Breton Island.
6 | Warrior Poets
Nearing the conclusion of the journey, the setting returns to the Scottish foundation. “Warrior Poets” is a sweeping ode to the Scottish patriots who led the resistance against the English occupation of Scotland in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Starved and vastly outnumbered during such battles as Stirling Bridge, Falkirk and Bannockburn; the Scots’ spirit and strength carried them through to freedom.
7 | The Granite City
The concluding fable is found back in Aberdeen; the metropolis also known as the Granite City. This exciting finale brings the journey to a close, showcasing the hero’s [Glennie’s] virtuosic and passionate nature—a true Celtic Vision!
