On An Eastern Shore

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — From the majestic introduction, On an Eastern Shore paints a picture of a small fishing town on the EasternSeaboard of the United States. A jig melody in m. 9, accompanied by drone fifths, creates an interestingblend of American and Irish music. The main melody (A) is energetic and is played aggressively. The cello’scountermelody at m. 13 is played strongly so it can stand out. Violin 2 harmonizes the violin I melodyin m. 17, matching its intensity and dynamic level. The main melody and the countermelody are playedfully at a higher dynamic, and the accompaniment (i.e. the drone fifths) is played at a lower dynamic.Measure 53 is a departure, as the ensemble plays concerted, staccato rhythms at a soft dynamic. Thisbuilds over the span of ten measures, and swirling sixteenth-note runs lead in to the Maestoso section atm. 63. Here the legato (B) melody reoccurs, stated more grandly. The A-melody returns in m .75, playedas lively as before on its way to the spirited, punctuated ending in m. 80. Right from the grandiose introduction, On An Eastern Shore paints the picture of a small fishing town on the Eastern seaboard of the United States. A jig melody accompanied by drone fifths creates an interesting blend of American and Irish music. This piece contains all of the elements that have made Alan Silva's music some of the most performed today.

Preview Pages