Ironclad

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Violoncello, String Bass, Piano — Ironclad is a term often used to describe hearty sailing vessels. The conflict on the high seas between sailors and pirates has been a long standing source for myth and storytelling. Normally this story is associated with the 19th century, but it even plays out in modern times off the east coast of Africa. This composition depicts this conflict with themes for both the sailors and the pirates.The aggressive pirate theme starts the piece with a bold statement. This rhythmic passage becomes a supporting element to the sailor theme first stated in the celli and basses at m. 22. This sailor melody crosses over bar lines to expand the sense of time and meter of the piece. Throughout the development section from mm. 30-53, both themes jockey for position and dance around each other vying for superiority. A reflective statement of the sailor theme follows at m. 54 that moves to a haunting climax at m. 62. Proper swells in the dynamics are essential to making the most of the musical phrases throughout this section. The pirate theme returns to pick up the pace and build some tension. After a grand pause at m. 86, the sailor theme returns in grand fashion at m. 87. Full bows here are recommended to achieve this triumphant sound. The pirate theme has the last word as it leads the piece to an exciting conclusion. In 3/4 time, Ironclad already has a different feel than most pieces at the beginner level. Aggressive and propelled by its intense rhythmic feel, this is signature Sean O’Loughlin at its finest.

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