Relayed from the National Museum of Wales
National Orchestra of Wales
(Cerddorfa Genedlaethol Cymru)
Adam Carse is held in the most grateful esteem by music teachers everywhere, for the way in which he has enriched the repertoire of teaching music. He has besides produced important works in many forms, and a number of his bigger orchestral pieces have earned cordial recognition. A native of Newcastle-on-Tyne, he is happily at home in music of the North, as in these 'Two Northern Sketches,' founded on a folk song and a folk dance tune from Northumbria. They were first played at a Promenade Concert in 1924. Neither needs anything by way of explanation for its enjoyment, unless to point out that the song melody in the first is mainly in the hands of the viola, the violoncello reinforcing him from time to time, and that the lively dance tune of the second is given for the most part to the first violin.
There are four movements in this bright and vigorous 'French Suite' by a composer who has shown that he is equally at home in the graver aspects of music. First is a stirring March, which he calls 'The Zouaves.' Those who know these wonderful troops will best appreciate how well Foulds has caught their amazing zest and spirit, but even without such associations, the piece is a splendid march tune, admirably set forth.
The second movement, often played apart from the Suite, is 'The Fairy Tarapatapoum,' a dainty and delicate piece which presents the idea of its subject with real charm.
The third movement, in more serious vein, is called 'Heroic Hymn of France.' There are two interchanging moods, one solemn and one heroic, the latter being introduced on its first appearance by a big melody for the trumpet. The violins have it when it appears after the next solemn interlude, and at the end, where the whole force of the orchestra is employed, listeners will feel that the term 'Heroic' is indeed a fitting one.
The last movement is as merry as the third was serious. The composer calls it 'The Joy of Life,' and the vivacity of the hurrying tune which runs almost all the way through could not easily be better described.
(to 14.00)
