Jacob de Haan

Salamander Symphony

Salamander Symphony' is a three-movement work for symphonic wind band in which the city of Kornwestheim, situated in Baden-Württemberg, occupies centre stage. It is the name of the well-known shoe factory that was established there in 1899 - and that symbolizes the industrial and social development of the city. In the symphony, we find various references to the mythological meaning of salamanders: they are vigorous creatures that contain the soul of fire. Without salamanders there would not be any fire. In addition, a salamander can change its shape and serve as a kind of vehicle through time. In the Berber culture, the salamander represents change.