Velocity

Instrumentation: 3 (II = afl, III = picc). 3 (III = ca). 3 (II =Eb, III = bcl). 3 (III = cbsn). - 4.3.3.1. - timp. - 4 prc. - hp. - org. (optional) - strings

Percussion:

1) Bongos; Tin Cans – Large & Medium (shared with perc 4); Suspended Cymbal; Splash Cymbal.

2) Whip (shared with perc 3); Bass Drum; Tambourine (shared with perc 3); Sand Blocks; Suspended Cymbal.

3) Tubular Bells; Tambourine (shared with perc 2); Tam Tam; Sanctus Bells*; Whip (shared with perc 2).

4) Crotales; Glockenspiel; Tin Cans (shared with perc 1).

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PROGRAMME NOTE

I was asked by the BBC to write a ‘crash-bang-wallop’ fanfare that would open the Last Night of the Proms with suitableclout. Although Velocity is not a ‘fanfare’ in the traditional sense there are certainly plenty of crashes, bangs and wallopsto start the concert fittingly.

Velocity has a very simple introduction and allegro structure. The main element of the work – a six-note motif that isheard throughout the piece in various guises – is clearly presented in the opening brass statements and soaring stringmelody.
This music quickly moves into a lively and energetic rhythmic allegro where playful woodwind lines and bells dominate.

After an extended build, a short euphoric climax on strings provides a moment’s respite before the brass figures from theopening return and the work drives furiously on to its inevitable climax. Velocity is not so much about speed but ratherforward momentum, drive and energy.

The Last Night of the Proms is the celebratory climax of the greatest classical music festival in the world and I’ve been verymuch inspired by the event itself. I have endeavoured to capture the spirit of this concert and write an optimistic,exhilarating and uplifting concert opener that will set the tone for this unique concert.

Velocity was commissioned by BBC Radio 3 for the BBC Symphony Orchestra and first performed at the Last Night of theProms on 13 September 2014.

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