Fiesta! (complete) - Iain Farrington (organ solo)

Fiesta! - Complete suite for organ solo by Iain Farrington Performed by Iain Farrington on the Mander organ of St John's College, Cambridge, 21st August 2018. Recorded on Priory Records, 'Live Wire'. Published by Aria Editions https://www.ariaeditions.org http://www.iainfarrington.com 1 - Celebration 2 - Conversations 3 - Stride Dance 4 - Song 5 - Fast Dance 6 - Nocturne 7 - Finale A suite in seven movements, in a bright, jazzy style. 'Fiesta' is music about celebrations and merry-making. In seven short movements, the mood is unashamedly joyous, ranging from wild excitement to intimacy. Despite the title, there are no Spanish elements in the music. 'Celebration' establishes the scene with its jumpy, knock-about rhythms, and champagne-popping spirit. Lively natterings and gossipings of individuals are heard in 'Conversations', arguing and laughing about life. To get people on their feet, the 'Stride Dance' launches a lively, bouncing rhythm. A gentle 'Song' relaxes the atmosphere before the pounding, foot-stomping rhythms of 'Fast Dance'. As the festivities draw on, a bluesy 'Nocturne' slackens the pace, with an improvisatory solo at the heart of the movement. Renewed energy is found in the 'Finale', a carefree fugue that breaks into a frantic dance. The celebrations are nearly brought to a premature conclusion by protestations from the neighbours, but this is a party that could go on and on… Fiesta was composed in 2002 and first performed by the composer in 2003.