The Lamps of Deepavali Orchestra - Sheet Music

SKU: CF.CAS168

ISBN 9781491167793. UPC: 680160927210. 9x12 inches. Key: A minor.

The Lamps of Deepavali (deepa meaning lamp and oli meaning light) commemorates one of the most important holidays in South Indian culture. The fall festival celebrating light over darkness is also known as Diwali, its North Indian counterpart. This piece is written in Sindhubhairavi, a raaga common in both the Carnatic and Hindustani (Bhairavi) musical traditions of India. The notes of this raaga are often associated with devotion and positivity. This piece is a wonderful introduction to South Indian music and culture.
The Lamps of Deepavali (deepa meaning lamp and oli meaning glow of light) commemorates one of the most important holidays in South Indian culture. Deepavali celebrates bringing light over darkness, and is also known as its North Indian counterpart, Diwali. This orchestral piece is written in Sindhubhairavi, a raaga common in both the Carnatic and Hindustani (Bhairavi) musical traditions of India. The notes of this raaga are often associated with devotion and positivity.The piece begins with a traditional musical Bhajan, a type of devotional song. It is sometimes heard in a call by a single leader or small group, followed by a response by all. This is followed by sounds of celebration with fireworks, new dresses, sweets, and the exchange of gifts, portrayed by the faster rhythms, energy, and growing intensity. Finally, we end with a return to the theme of the Bhajan. This music is an exciting and accessible introduction to the sounds of South Indian music, as well as the culture.Performance notes:In the Bhajan, the call of each phrase can be performed by a soloist or smaller group, as opposed to the entire section. Traditionally, a bell would be used, if one happens to be available. Otherwise, chimes may be used as noted.In the second section, the mridangam is the drum that would traditionally be used. If one is not available, alternatives should approximate the sound to maintain authenticity. A combination of small and large djembe or bongos and congas are possibilities. Written percussion is a suggestion and may be modified through improvisation.In measures 19 and 21, the violins have snap pizzicato, which is pulling the string to hit the fingerboard and make a snapping sound. This portrays the popping effect of fireworks. Players may come up with other sounds as well, such as quickly rolling fingernails across the wood of the instrument. Finally, just like in a fireworks display, the piece builds to the climax in m. 50-58. Make sure the momentum keeps building to that point and then let it all out.

About Carl Fischer Concert String Orchestra Series

This series of pieces (Grade 3 and higher) is designed for advancing ensembles. The pieces in this series are characterized by:

• Expanded use of rhythms, ranges and keys but technical demands are still carefully considered
• More comprehensive bowing techniques
• Viola T.C. included
• Careful selection of keys and degree of difficulty for advancing musicians