Description

Level: Advanced
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Greek mythology, The Sirens depicts the thrilling journey of a group of sailors in search of glory, all while attempting to survive the irresistible allure of the siren’s song. The opening segment details the start of the odyssey, as “the ship casts off and sets sail for the inevitable”, represented through an ominous chorale of brass - dense and thick as the fog that the lingers across the expansive ocean horizon. Upon the conclusion of this section, a sense of urgency kicks into high gear as the adventurers fare against the dangers of the mythological seas, backed with a pulse-pounding soundtrack that highlights the technical abilities of each section. In the second movement, we are finally introduced to the sirens, urging the sailors to “come closer to hear the secret song that is irresistible.” The combination of brass colors provides distinct lyricism in this movement, with contributions from the woodwinds and percussion helping shape the power and allure of these mythological creatures, as well as their hypnotic and mysterious origins. But for all their beauty, the final section of the program illustrates the sirens malevolent intentions, claiming “such a simple a song works every time” Chaos and conflict clash head on as the sailors attempt to evade the dangers of the sirens deadly song.

Instrumentation

Music by Kevin Shah
Battery Percussion by Mike Jackson

Flutes / Piccolo
Clarinet 1, 2
Bass Clarinet
Alto Sax 1, 2
Tenor Sax
Baritone Sax
Trumpet (3)
Horn (2)
Baritone Solo
Low Brass (3)
Tuba

Xylo
3 Vibes
4 Marimbas
Crotales
3 Synthesizers - MainStage File Included
5 Auxiliary Percussion

Snares
Tenors
Bass Drums (5)
Cymbals