Geoffrey Lawrence

Warcrye Of Elfegen

The piece depicts scenes from the mythological kingdom of Elfegen, the North European home of a ferocious race of warriors. From the tranquillity of the opening, where first can be heard the eerie 'warcrye', things move quickly on; figures are scurrying up and down the hills moving into battle positions. The intensity increases constantly and soon a fierce battle rages. In time, the fighting subsides and a period of reflective calm replaces the chaos that has gone before. During the lull in battle a lone voice is heard, as if trying to appeal for peace, for people to resolve their differences and see sense. The voice is, however, ignored and the conflict sparks off once more. The ruthless Elfegen warriors are not content until the victory is complete, a very loud, and triumphant climax is heard as another battle reaches its inevitable conclusion. (Grade 5) Performance time 6'38' (Recorded on QPRM133D FESTIVAL OF MUSIC 1999, Massed Bands of the Royal Air Force)