Score
The Bells are Calling : for organ / Robert Ampt.
Library shelf no. 786.5/AMP 2 [Available for loan]
Work Overview
The year 2017 marked the 175th anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Sydney Council. Acknowledging this anniversary, "The Bells are Calling" is a musical commemoration and celebration of Sydney's past and present. Linking the city's beginnings and the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 to the present dynamic metropolis is the "Westminster Chime", now heard from both London's Big Ben and Sydney's Town Hall clock tower. Although neither clock existed as early as 1788, modern-day listeners will readily accept the connection.
Besides the use of the "Westminster Chime" motive, the "Lament" also incorporates the melody of the Australian folk song "Botany Bay". The movement aims to evoke both the sadness and the nostalgia of the first terrifying journey into the unknown. "Rejoice" converts the "Westminster Chime" into a joyous, dancing motive to symbolise the present city's energy and power. It includes references to "The Last Post" and "Waltzing Matilda".
Work Details
Year: 2017
Instrumentation: Organ. (Requires an instrument of at least two manuals/pedals. If the instrument possesses a festival trumpet, that stop can also be used).
Duration: 11 min.
Difficulty: Advanced — Lament - medium, Rejoice - advanced
Contents note: Lament (5 min.) -- Rejoice (6 min.).
First performance: by Robert Ampt — 25 Sep 17. Sydney Town Hall
The composer notes:
The language is modern but totally harmonic and easily accessible to the average audience.
Performances of this work
10 Jun 18: Sydney University Great Hall. Featuring Amy Johansen.
29 Dec 17: Sydney Town Hall. Featuring Simon Jeon.
25 Sep 17: Sydney Town Hall. Featuring Robert Ampt.
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