Kevin Houben

Through the Silent Fields

Commissioned by the Koninklijke Harmonie De Stroobanders (Diepenbeek, Belgium) Through The Silent Fields is an evocative work inspired by a late evening walk through the fields of Diepenbeek. As the day slowly transitions into the silence of the evening, a moment of calm and reflection emerges – a feeling that is at the heart of this composition. The piece is structured in a clear A–B–A form, with a continuous melody serving as the common thread. This theme gradually evolves from a rather restrained beginning in the minor key to a warmer, more open sound in the major – like a transition from twilight to inner calm. Small, intimate passages alternate with broader orchestral moments, built up gradually without losing the fragile atmosphere. The harmonies move between tension and relaxation: some dissolve, others deliberately stand still, thus contributing to the tranquil character of the work. The continuous melodic line requires the orchestra to carefully develop tension and a great sense of nuance in order to really bring the music to life. Through The Silent Fields is thus a resting point in the concert program – a musical moment to pause and take a deep breath.