BLACK FIRE (after Paradise Lost) (Violin Solo with Concert Band - Score only) - Clarke, Nigel

This is not a straight forward concerto, but rather a symphonic drama for violin and ensemble. It uses the soloist as both protagonist and ensemble player, much as Berlioz treated the viola in his symphony 'Harold in Italy'. Black Fire is written in one movement though it has three clear sections (slow, fast and slow). The music reflects the various shades of darkness and suffering that dominate the atmosphere of the early part of the poem. The violinist takes the role of Satan, reflecting his moods, from righteous indignation to sorrowful remorse. A motif from Wagner's opera 'Gotterdaemmerung' (Twighlight of the Gods) is used throughout the work to represent Satan's brooding hatred. At the end of the work you will find Satan in the form of the solo violin heroically travelling towards Paradise to corrupt 'Mankind'. Duration: 26:00

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