Antonio Petrillo

King Arthur

The legendary figure of Arthur, British leader, is mainly the result of folklore and literary invention. According to the tales Arthur, who in the most ancient sources is called 'Warlord,' defended Great Britain from the Saxon invaders between the fifth and sixth centuries. In the introductory measures of the piece, we can hear the basic themes developing freely one after the other. The first movement (Allegretto - march) describes Arthur with his most faithful riders galloping on his horse for simple rides in the woods or hunting moments. The second movement (Vivace - gigue), describes court dances to celebrate his victories over the Saxons. The third and last movement (Moderato - grandiose) portrays the special relationship between Arthur and Excalibur, the magical and mysterious sword that only he managed to extract from the rock before being proclaimed king. Excalibur's scabbard is said to have the power to protect King Arthur from being wounded in battle.

King Arthur is a character suspended between folklore and legend and it is said that he defended Great Britain from the Saxon invaders between the 5th and 6th centuries.