Toledo - Spanish Impression for Wind Orchestra Stefan Schwalgin

In the heart of Spain, not far from the capital Madrid, lies Toledo. The city's history dates back to pre-Christian times, and accordingly, it boasts countless significant buildings from a wide variety of eras. During a visit to Toledo, composer Stefan Schwalgin was so deeply fascinated by the ever-present contrast between history and modern urban life that he spontaneously decided to dedicate a small musical tribute to the city. His composition Toledo appropriately draws on the harmonic and melodic language of traditional Spanish music and dresses it in the stylistic garb of modern popular music.

Two sections of the orchestra are given a soloistic spotlight in the composition: first, the upper woodwinds, beginning with the flutes, then joined by a solo clarinet and gradually building into a full tutti section. Next, the percussion section delivers a rousing rhythmic interlude that is sure to captivate any audience. And now: off to Toledo!