“The Rose of Sonora is first and foremost a violin concerto. One of the most significant aspects of it to both the composer and soloist is that it be accessible to and engaging for today’s audience.
It is composed in five scenes (movements) for solo violin, symphony orchestra, and male chorus, but in the style of an epic Western film score. One of the features of the solo violin part is the merging of traditional fiddle technique with classic violin technique, giving the main character, Rose, her voice.
Prior to each scene being performed, a description of what is happening in that scene will be projected on a screen above the orchestra or read by a narrator. Inspired by the scene descriptions and the music they are hearing, by the end of the concerto, each member of the audience will have created his or her own ‘mental movie’ of The Rose Of Sonora.”
Listen
September, 1893 in what was known at that time as the Territory of Arizona…
Excerpts feature the Capitol Studios recording with Ms. Mulcahy on solo violin and a virtual orchestra.