Carpe Diem

Full of energy and excitement, this overture makes the perfect concert opener or closer.  Tuneful melodies and shifting moods explore a wide variety of string playing techniques, while the colorful orchestration gives every section a chance in the spotlight.  This A B A work opens with a high-spirited main theme followed by a more lyrical second theme.  The contrasting middle section is a tender lullaby introduced first by solo violin, and then taken up with great emotion by the entire ensemble.  The opening section returns, refreshingly re-orchestrated for added interest.  The piece ends in a flurry of excitement.  Playable by middle-level groups but definitely mature enough for the advanced string orchestra.