Description
Duration 4:00 min
This work was composed on Ngunnawal/Ngambri Country (Canberra, ACT) and arranged on Whadjuk Noongyar Country (Perth, WA).
The Shepherd conjures a pastoral scene of rolling fields and distant views. The piece’s lyricism, lilt and flow, and ornamentation is influenced loosely by Scottish and English folk music.
Composer Sally Greenaway wrote The Shepherd for an ornate old grand piano, which was built in England at the beginning of the 20th-Century. The instrument, which has survived major world conflicts, is made out of wood felled from forests that no longer exist. Its beautiful wood veneer was crafted by artisans whose skills are almost extinct today.
This version, for Symphony Orchestra was arranged by Matt Klohs, and essentially comprises a theme and variations. It has delicate textures, invoking a sense of loneliness and isolation - the life of a shepherd - whilst also featuring moments of immense power and strength, things every shepherd must have to protect their vulnerable flock.
Instrumentation
Piccolo, Flute 1 2, Oboe 1 2, Bassoon 1 2, Bb Clarinet 1 2, F Horn 1 2, Trumpet 1 2, Trombone 1 2, Tuba, Tympani, Sn Dr, Sus Cymbal, Triangle, Glock
Violin 1 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass