St. Cecilia 2013.

November 22nd, which means we celebrate St. Cecilia, Patron Saint of musicians.

Today is a special one as, exactly 100 years ago, Benjamin Britten was born in Lowestoft.

The musical coincidence doesn´t end here, as today I´ll be playing Britten´s "War Requiem" with the Asturias Symphony Orchestra, a real reason for celebration.

Nothing better to celebrate our day than "Hymn to St. Cecilia" by Britten himself. 

Enjoy this day, both musicans and music lovers.

…et in Arcadia ego.

© David Valdés

St. Cecilia Day.

Today, November 22nd, is St. Cecilia Day, patron saint of musicians.

As a homage to the Patron and all musicians in the world, I´d like to suggest you a work by Henry Purcell "Heil, Bright Cecilia!", also know as "Ode to St. Cecilia" (z. 328, composed in 1692).

I´d like to specially recommend number 11 from the 13 numbers it contains. As you already know my "warrior" ardor, my passion for timpani, and my interest in military music, it is not a coincidence that I´m posting a fragment entitled "The Fife and all the Harmony of War".

The Gabrielli Consort and Players, conducted by Paul McCreesh (please pay attention to the wonderful inflection to minor few bars before the end, and the return to major at the last bar):

The text goes:

"The Fife and all the Harmony of War,

in vain attempt the Passions to alarm,

Which thy commanding Sounds compose and charm".

Happy St. Cecilia Day to all.

…et in Arcadia ego.

© David Valdés