Concert Band - Level 4 - Digital Download SKU: A0.1472717 Composed by Michael Shaw. Celtic,Classical,Contest,Festival,Irish,Romantic Period. 85 pages. Michael Shaw #1050366. Published by Michael Shaw (A0.1472717). The Ruin is a captivating symphonic poem, inspired by the evocative text of English poet Walter de la Mare. This piece serves as a cross-curricular exploration, seamlessly integrating elements of literature, traditional music, and diverse musical techniques.At its core, The Ruin is a programmatic work, aiming to convey the vivid imagery and emotional depth of de la Mare's poetry. The poem itself reflects on the theme of nostalgia, contemplating the remnants of a once-great civilization now in ruins. Shaw masterfully translates these themes into music, using a rich palette of orchestral colors and textures to evoke the haunting beauty of the decaying structures and the passage of time.A unique feature of The Ruin is its incorporation of the traditional Irish reel King of the Fairies. This lively and energetic tune provides a stark and sudden contrast to the more somber and reflective opening of the piece, symbolizing an enduring spirit amidst the decay. In The Ruin, Michael Shaw has created a work that not only delights the senses but also provides rich educational insights into poetry, program music, Irish dances, non-standard percussion (cricket rasp), mixed-meter, motifs, and impressionistic music. Its blend of poetry, traditional music, and innovative compositional techniques makes it a valuable addition to the concert band repertoire and an excellent resource for educators.
