Instrumentation

3(III=picc).3(III=ca).3(I=Ebcl.III=bcl).2 - 4431 - timp - perc: susp.cym/hi-hat/clash.cym/lion's roar/BD - strings

Availability

Score and parts for hire

Programme Notes

Commissioned by the CBSO, ‘Falling Down’ is one of those rare creatures, a concerto for contrabassoon and orchestra. The title explains itself: the piece begins and ends with music that tumbles from the top of the orchestra down to the depths where the contra lives. The dialogue in between is a dark capriccio intercut with lyrical moments. The orchestra isn’t set in opposition to the soloist (except in strength of numbers); other deep and dark instruments (tuba, cor anglais, bass drum and lion’s roar) have parts to play. There is a concertante part for two sets of timpani placed on opposite sides of the stage. ‘Falling Down’ is dedicated to Margaret Cookhorn, the CBSO’s wonderful contra player.

© John Woolrich

Falling Down

+ live broadcast on Radio 3 and BBC 4 (iPlayer only)

Royal Albert Hall (London, United Kingdom)

Margaret Cookhorn/City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra/Andris Nelsons

Falling Down

Symphony Hall (Birmingham, United Kingdom)

Andris Nelsons/City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra/Margaret Cookhorn

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Falling Down

Symphony Hall (Birmingham, United Kingdom)

Andris Nelsons/City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra/Margaret Cookhorn