Andrew Robertson Mackereth

Isca Dumnoniorum

Isca Dumnoniorum is the Latinization of a native British term for flowing water and refers to the River Exe. More specifically, the name originally meant "abundant in fish" before it gradually evolved into a simple synonym for "water." This origin is reflected in the modern Welsh name for Exeter, Caerwysg, which means "fortified settlement on the River Uisc." The same root was also used for the River Usk (Afon Wysg) in South Wales. Consequently, the settlement there—now known as Caerleon—was called Isca Augusta, while the settlement in Devon was named Isca Dumnoniorum—"the Usk of the Dumnonii." The legacy of this Roman settlement is still clearly visible in present-day Exeter. Parts of the original city wall, as well as several ancient structures, are remarkably well-preserved and allow visitors walking through the city today to gain a vivid impression of its early history. The Romans were not only highly productive builders and feared warriors, but also skilled artisans who magnificently adorned their homes and palaces. At the same time, they were always vigilant and ready to defend their fortress at a moment’s notice. Musically, the founding of the city of ISCA is represented by a four-note motif—B, E♭, C, A—which, according to certain musical notation conventions, spells out I–S–C–A. This central musical idea is first introduced at rehearsal letter J. This work is dedicated to the ISCA Concert Band and was composed to mark its founding as the first concert wind orchestra in Exeter in living memory.