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The Capriol Suite is one of Peter Warlock’s most popular works. Originally written in 1926 for two pianos and dedicated to the Breton composer Paul Ladmirault, this lively suite was later orchestrated by the composer himself.

Based on melodies from Thoinot Arbeau’s Orchésographie, a fascinating book about dance steps and music, the suite comprises of 6 short movements each with its own character and mood.

With thrilling contrasts between loud and soft, bowed and pizzicato, fast and stately, each movement is based on a French Renaissance dance.

Basse-dance, a stately and elegant dance in which the feet glide over the floor in a dignified striding motion; Pavane, the traditionally slow and solemn court dance of the 16th and 17th centuries; Tordion, a brisk and exciting dance in 3 featuring a jump on the last beat; Bransles, a rustic dance performed by several couples in the round; Pieds-en-l’air, a lyrical theme featuring the feet visibly leaving the floor; and Mattachins, a lively sword dance traditionally performed by young men.

Programme Note © Amy Campbell

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This concert is available in video format - it will not be possible to have an audience at Â鶹Éç Hoddinott Hall