Sonatina
Sonatina is a modern homage to classical form, balancing elegance with propulsive energy. In three short movements, the work traverses contrasting moods, allowing the euphonium to showcase both finesse and character. The work’s opening Pavane flows with lyricism and reflects the composer’s deep understanding of brass instruments and his flair for idiomatic writing. A more introspective second movement, subtitled In memoriam Morfydd Childs, takes the form of a Sarabande and unfolds with long melodic lines and lush harmonies. The final movement, Gigue Irlandaise, is a spirited Irish Jig, full of rhythmic drive, bringing the piece to a thrilling close.
Commissioned and premiered by Martin Smith in Hampshire, UK on 13th June 2021, Sonatina received its first complete studio recording by David Childs (euphonium) and Chris Williams (piano) on the Naxos album, Still Glides the Stream.