Mercury's Mischief

"Mercury’s Mischief" depicts imaginary scenes in a day of the life of Mercury, the god of trade and messenger of the gods. First, the low brass introduce a sly yet bold mantra that portrays Mercury marching through town. During his patrol, he flaunts his caduceus, a wand entwined with two serpents that has magical powers to put mortals to sleep, raise the dead, and turn anything it touches into gold. Known for trickery, his antics can be heard through glissandi in the trombones as well as a second melody that slithers and wanders. As the piece progresses, customers trading and bantering with Mercury can be heard through short, accented figures that pass from one group of instruments to another. And, sometimes, clashing notes even result! At the same time, harmonies invoke a celestial quality, representing the rocky colors of the planet Mercury.