Banda (Orchestra di fiati)
Info
The beautiful Borromean Islands are located at the westernmost edge of the Lago Maggiore in northern Italy. To Luigi di Ghisallo they were a unique source of inspiration for this suite.
First Movement – Isola Bella
The introduction describes the morning mood at the lake: there are still patches of mist over the waters, the wind blows softly. On Isola Bella, the Beautiful Island, there is a magnificent palace with a lavishly decorated interior and hundreds of turrets - somewhat ornate hence. Brightly colored peacocks are walking about in well tended parks. Sentimental Italian motifs determine the character of this part of the suite.
Second Movement – Isola Madre
There are not many tourists who visit this island. Its splendid park convey an almost melancholic mood. In terms of style, the composer uses a barcarole here, originally a song sung by Venetian gondoliers, to transport the atmosphere predominating on Isola Madre.
Third Movement – Isola dei Pescatori
Life is pulsating in the narrow lanes and small bars and restaurants located on Isola dei Pescatori, the Island of the Fishers – whose small boats anchor near by. The many visitors who come to the island, bright sunshine almost throughout the year create a serene mood. In this movement the composer selected a fast tarantella as song of praise for all fishermen.