Armenian Dances (Part I)
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Armenian Dances (Part I) is a musical piece for concert band, written by Alfred Reed (1921–2005) in 1972. The song consists of five authentic Armenian folk songs from the collection of Komitas Vardapet (1869–1935), an Armenian ethnomusicologist. The piece was completed in the summer of 1972 and first performed by the University of Illinois Symphonic Band on January 10, 1973. The piece is dedicated to Dr. Harry Begian, the director of that ensemble.
The Armenian Dances are a four-movement suite; this Part I is the first movement, while Part II consists of the other three movements. Part I includes five distinct sections:
- Tzirani Tzar (The Apricot Tree) (mm. 1–29), which opens the piece, begins with a short brass fanfare and runs in the woodwinds. This sentimental song consists of three related melodies.
- Gakavi Yerk (The Partridge's Song) (mm. 30–68), an original composition by Vardapet, has a simple melody which is first stated in the woodwinds and then repeated by the brass. Its simple, delicate melody was intended for a children’s choir and is symbolic of that bird’s tiny steps.
- Hoy, Nazan Eem (Hoy, My Nazan) (mm. 69–185) is a lively dance, mostly in 5/8 time. In this song, a young man sings the praises of his beloved, named Nazan.
- Alagyaz (mm. 186–223), a folk song named for a mountain in Armenia, is a broad and majestic song; it serves as a contrast to the fast, upbeat songs that come both before and after.
- Gna, Gna (Go, Go) (mm. 224–422) is a delightful and humorous laughing-song in 2/4 time; it builds in volume and speed until the exciting conclusion of the piece.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- Program Note by Alfred Reed, from the score to Armenian Dances (Part I)
- Historical Note by Dr. Violet Vagramian, Florida International University, from the score to Armenian Dances (Part I)
