Name: Valhalla by Michael_A_Young
Duration: 8 min 7 s
Description: Performed by South Brisbane Federal Band (2019 Composition Competition Gala Concert, People's Choice Award).

Composed by Joel Roberts, Jan 2015.

The idea for this piece was initiated by Angus Davison and Roger Joseph, who asked me to write a piece in commemoration of the birth and war experience of Alec Campbell. The title is derived from the Commonwealth Star (the big one on the Australian flag) that represents the unity of the Australian states and territories. It is also a play on the name of a Bluegrass piece that I play: Under the Double Eagle.

The significance of the title is that Campbell's life ran in parallel with the establishment of Australian Federation and the myths and legends that were ascribed to the young nation's "trail by fire" during the First World War. I had not set out with the intention of writing a nationalistic or patriotic piece, as these things are anathema to my sense of what it is to be Australian. However, after researching the Gallipoli campaign and the life of Campbell the piece evolved to a place where it seemed to "want" a program, or train of events.

The structure of the piece basically follows the chronology of Alec Campbell's early life, his response to the call of the Empire; his training, travel and experiences at Gallipoli; and his return to Australia and process of recovery. Obviously these experiences weren't unique to Campbell, and would have been shared in common with many young Australians at the time.

Performed by NoteAurius
Artistic Director: Angus Davison
Conductor: Michael Young
Flute: Anne Boothroyd
Clarinet: Genevieve Stather
Horn: Ross Campbell
Violin: Joseph Phillips
Viola: Josh Farner
Cello: Magnus Turner
Piano: Thomas Misson
Recording by Caleb Miller

Under The Seven Pointed Star

Performed by South Brisbane Federal Band (2019 Composition Competition Gala Concert, People's Choice Award).

Valhalla

Michael Young is a Hobart-based composer, conductor, and musician. Michael is actively involved in Tasmanian community banding, and is currently Musical Director of Clarence City Band. He also serves as the Chair of the Tasmanian Bands League’s Music Advisory Board. He is also a free-lance brass and woodwind instrumental tutor.

Valhalla

Michael_A_Young

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