Festive Dances (Henry Jarvela) For String Orchestra

Festive Dances is a vibrant, energetic piece where everyone gets the chance to playsomething interesting. The piece starts with a toe-tapping country dance with a simpleyet captivating tune. At letter D the music transitions into what can be described as an’acrobatic dance’ driven by a robust cello and bass ostinato. Eventually, a briefpresentation of the original theme is heard again, this time in canon. An extendedpassage of quavers follows, which transitions back to the original theme bringing thepiece to a spirited conclusion. Festive Dances is sure to leave both players andlisteners in a happy frame of mind!

About the Composer:

Henry Jarvela graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Cello performance) from the QldConservatorium, Griffith University, in 2019. As a performer, Henry has been a member ofboth the Qld and Australian Youth Orchestras, as well as local community groups. Henryhas had an interest in composing from a young age and a number of his pieces have beenperformed by students in his local community. Since graduating, Henry has become moreinvolved in the teaching and mentoring of young string players both privately and in a school and community context.