Ash Madni

Byzantium: Eastern Front

This work was inspired by the great Alexios Komnenos, emperor of Byzantium during 1081 to 1095. During the first crusade, he fought and won several battles, marking his brilliant mind for strategy and tactics. The composer writes: In my mind high above, I saw birds circling the plains outside Byzantium, whilst below, a great army amassed and waited for the great emperor to lead on his horse. Together with Alexios in front, the army charged the Mongolian army. Sonically, the brass oratory heralds the start of the charge followed by a carpet of ostinato strings, reflecting horses moving towards an epic battle. Tight timing of the entire orchestra is critical for this piece.