Brian Balmages

3 Celtic Dances

This three-movement work is based on various Scottish dance forms and includes a combination of authentic and original music. The opening Reel begins with a light-hearted presentation of the melody in typical Scottish fashion. As the movement develops, rhythms and harmonies become more intense and driving before a burst of percussion brings it to a sudden close. The second movement, Air, uses solo alto saxophone in a lush and lyrical setting of Well May I Behold My Faithful Brown-Hair'd Maid. The theme, presented in two contrasting settings, becomes extremely powerful with soaring countermelodies before returning to the tranquility of the opening. The final movement, Jig, makes use of expansive percussion as it celebrates one of the most well-known Celtic dance forms. The composer layers themes and various sounds throughout as the work builds to a furious conclusion supported by an enormous battery of percussion. Thrilling!