In six sections, this tuneful piece is designed for school performers, and explores different styles of dance music around the world.


Opus No : 98a

Category : Amateur Orchestra

Year : 2000

Duration : 8'0"

Commissioned by : Columba College, Dunedin


Instrumentation: for school orchestra flute 1, flute 2, oboe, clarinet 1 in B flat, clarinet 2 in B flat, Flugel Horn in B flat, 3 percussionists playing Roto toms, bass drum, triangle, rainmaker, cymbal, wood block, sleigh bells, maracas, cow bell, Piano duet (4 hands at one keyboard) 1st violins (with solo), 2nd violins, violas, cellos, double bass.
The scoring is flexible: trumpet could be used instead of Flugel, for instance.

Level : 1 - for amateur musicians and younger players

Available from the composer


Programme Note

This work attempts to evoke dance styles from different parts of the world, without using any real folk music. The six dances are linked without a break:
1. Maori Action Song
2. Celtic Gig
3. Transylvannian ' Swaying Dance '
4. Ragtime Dance
5. Latin American Dance
6. Russian Sabre Dance