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Tantalus - Kevin Houben - solo for Euphonium or Baritone and Piano |
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In stockEuphoniumStore is delighted to introduce this super work (2011) by the popular and very talented composer Kevin Houben.
Published by Scherzando, this work is certain to find its way into examination lists, competition repertoire and recitals.
A short programme note:
The composer writes: When Tantalus, a figure from Greek mythology, invited the gods to a banquet, he served them his son Pelops who he had cut into pieces. He did so to test whether his guests were omniscient. The gods were immediately aware of the food and did not eat the meat offered. Except Demeter, who could not think of anything but her daughter who had been captured by Hades, inadvertently ate a piece of Pelops shoulder. Zeus, the ruler of the gods, instructed Hermes to collect the parts make the body whole again. Tartarus, offered offered a piece of ivory to rebuild the shoulder and Rhea brought Pelops to life again.
As a punishment, Zeus sent Tantalus to the deepest part of the underworld to suffer everlasting torture Tantalus had to stand in water up to his chin, but every time he got thirsty and moved his lips towards the water, it sank to the earth. As he was hungry as well, he tried to pick fruit of trees that seemed within reach, but his efforts were in vain. Whenever he almost got hold of a piece of fruit, a strong wind rose and blew the branches out of reach. Above him towered a boulder that could fall at any moment.The term 'torment of Tantalus' refers to this predicament presenting things much desired but that are out of reach.
Kevin Houben used the story of Tantalus as inspiration for this composition.
We're pretty sure that this piece is going to be widely appreciated by all intermediate and advanced players.
Duration 6.30mins
Difficulty: 4/6
Supplied with solo parts in TC and BC and piano accompaniment
