for orchestra (2010)

3(fl.3 dbl. picc.).3(ob.3 dbl. ca.).3cl.3(bsn.3 dbl. cbsn.)/4.3.3.1/timp. perc.(2)/hp./14.12.10.8.6

Duration: 5'30''

Commissioned by London Symphony Orchestra as part of UBS Soundscapes: Pioneers

World première: London Symphony Orchestra / cond. Nicholas Collon, Barbican Hall, London, UK, 10th November 2010

Austrian première: Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra / cond. James MacMillan, Wiener Konzerthaus, Vienna, Austria, 20th November 2011 (broadcast ORF Ö1 November 2011)

Australian première: West Australian Symphony Orchestra / cond. Paul Daniel, Astor Theatre, Perth, Australia, 14th August 2013

Studio recording: BBC Symphony Orchestra / cond. Garry Walker, Maida Vale Studios, London, UK, 14th November 2013 (broadcast BBC Radio 3 January 2014)

Reviews

"Solar … manages to suggest galactic power on a compact scale and sets a trajectory of inexorable slow movement that took it convincingly in a single revolution to the final bar."

"... compelling sonorities, and high-density harmonies, well constructed and strongly imagined."

"Howard showed herself to be more than just a good orchestrator of blazing images, conjuring up tension and a sense of magnetic pull."

"a sure touch with orchestral textures"

"... the ensuing slow-burn crescendo seemed tragic in its implications, a dense, barbed wall of sound ... Solar seems to despair for mankind while also being inspiring as music."

"The relationship to Magnetite was clearly audible: both Solar and Magnetite ware inspired by the idea of sound as magnetic fields. Emily Howard proves her hand for theatrical moments and a cleverly devised arc of suspense. The audience received the work enthusiastically…"