Martin Ellerby

New World Dances

Cast in three short movements the work endeavours to recreate the pioneering spirit of the journey across America (the then 'New World') as this vast continent was opened up and its wonders exposed. The three dance episodes that make up the suite are symbolic in an analogous sense to this 'reaching' principle: the first - Earth Dance - is a vigorous overture, pushing out the frontiers; the interlude - Moon Dance - contemplates the huge distances to be crossed and Sun Dance represents the realisation of the American dream, rhythmic and full of energy. Written in affectionate tribute to America and its people, New World Dances was rather symbolically completed on July 4th! (Grade 6) (Recorded on QPRM134D THE KINGS GO FORTH, Central Band of the Royal Air Force)