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- Betsy Jolas
B-Day for Symphony Orchestra (2006)
- Alphonse Leduc (World)
- 2.2.2.2/2.0.2.2/timp.2perc/pf/str(12.10.8.6.4.)
- 16 min
- 18th June 2026, Auditorium, Dijon, France
- 19th June 2026, Auditorium de RF, Paris, France
Programme Note
Commissioned by the Boston Modern Orchestra Project.
Commissioned for her 80th birthday, B-Day is a playful orchestral fantasy built on a series of "strange variations" of the Happy Birthday melody. Jolas treats the famous theme as a musical guest, allowing it to weave through the orchestra in various guises, sometimes hidden in rhythmic fragments, other times appearing with humorous clarity.
The celebration reaches its peak with a surprise theatrical finale: the entry of a soprano voice, or "Messenger Angel," who calls the ensemble to join the festivities. It is a witty, vibrant tribute to the joy of creative longevity.
© Betsy Jolas
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