Shenandoah Spring 1862
Publisher Desc.
The orchestral work, Shenandoah Spring 1862, is a remembrance of that Spring in 1862. The piece begins with the melancholy sound of a cornet playing The Battle Cry of Freedom. After a short crescendo that touches upon the old Southern song Lorena, the cellos settle into the featured melody, Shenandoah. A thoughtful appearance of Aura Lee floats reflectively above the theme and remains nearby throughout much of the piece. The rattle of drums and distant bugle announce the ominous approach of the struggle. Tension mounts and the entire orchestra slides into the unavoidable "fog of war." Suspended above the confusion and fury, Aura Lee is now accompanied by bugle and battle terrors. The ensemble plunges into a frenzied remembrance of the Shenandoah theme, this time with the trumpets pleading in a searing minor key. The battle subsides. The bugle calls "Retreat" and the armies disengage. A hopeful peace returns to the valley. The Battle Cry of Freedom is re-stated. The reminder that Freedom has always been accompanied by a profound cost.
Select a Product
My Library