(Section C)
Led by MARIE WILSON
Conducted by JULIAN CLIFFORD
MAUD HEATON (contralto) In its French form Cherubini's opera is known as Les Deux Journées (The Two Days) and the story tells how the Water Carrier, who is the hero, within two days rescues his patron from the wrath of the powerful Cardinal Mazarin.
In accordance with the tradition of the age, the Overture begins with a slow and rather pompous introduction and then there is a lively section with two main tunes. Both can be easily recognised as they appear. In 1916 the Japanese dancer, Michio Ito , produced a ballet at the London Coliseum, and Hoist wrote a number of short dance pieces specially for it. Ito furnished the composer with real Japanese themes, and all six pieces, except the third, are founded on these. The third has melodies of Hoist's own invention.
The several movements are: The
Prelude: 'The Song of the Fisherman ', a rather sad and wistful melody, with the harp prominent in the accompaniment. i. ' Ceremonial Dance ', brilliant and in festive mood, with the drums and bells taking a considerable part in its brightness. 2. ' Dance of the Marionettes ', the movement which has no Japanese theme as the basis ; it is built upon a sort of jumpy rhythm with three quick notes to each of the two beats in the bar. Interlude, quite short and slow, makes use of the same theme as the first number, ' The Song of the Fisherman '. 3. ' Dance under the Cherry Tree '. A tune on the flute begins this delicate, graceful movement. 4. Finale : ' Dance of the Wolves '. This works up appropriately to a stirring and excited mood ; attentive listeners will notice how the gong and the xylophone are cunningly used to heighten the effect.