Informationen zu "Tony Osborne Rocket Man Double Bass Quartet"
Verlag: Recital Music
Verlagsnummer: RM515
EAN: 9790570455157
ISMN: M-57045-515-7
Beschreibung
Robert Stephenson (1803-1859) was an English engineer, who, with his father
George, designed and built railways, bridges and tunnels, not least of which
was the famous Rocket locomotive. The music in this quartet also reflects
Stephenson's roots and work in Newcastle upon Tyne. He was born in Willington
Quay, Wallsend, near the Keelmans' Hospital, and would most likely have known
the famous sea-song: The Keel Row ? which is a running motif of the piece. It
opens simply, reflecting his humble beginnings, and The Keel Row further sets
the scene, where his father was a colliery engine brakesman, but soon showed
burgeoning prowess as an engineer. Rhythms become more definite and bold as
the pace of progress takes on new dimensions and Robert followed his father
into the business of building locomotives. A new intensity springs up, 7/8
time, heralding the emergence of something pioneering and exciting. The
iconic and legendary Rocket took steam locomotion, to which George and Robert
had already contributed significantly, to new and innovative levels and
formed the basis of locomotive design for the next 150 years. The music now
moves into more adventurous realms of rhythm and harmony to portray the
journey of its development and success. This was not without set-back, as
reflected in the more turbulent moments, but nothing can halt the build-up of
pace, energy and intensity. The familiar refrains of The Keel Row now return
with more vigour to conclude the piece in a spirit of enduring achievement.
