John Corigliano: Symphony No. 3 "Circus Maximus" & Gazebo Dances

Featuring

Jerry Junkin
University of Texas Wind Ensemble
John Corigliano Jr.

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Composition History

John Corigliano's Gazebo Dances was originally written as a set of four-hand pieces dedicated to pianist friends, and later arranged for orchestra and concert band.

Historical Context

The title Circus Maximus refers to the ancient Roman arena, the largest in the world, where 300,000 spectators watched chariot races, hunts, and battles.

Composition History

John Corigliano's Circus Maximus: Symphony No. 3 was influenced by a desire to write a piece where the audience is encircled by musicians, placing them in the center of an arena.

Composer Biography

John Corigliano was awarded the 2001 Pulitzer Prize in Music for his Symphony No. 2 and an Academy Award ('Oscar') in March 2000 for his film score to The Red Violin.

Performer Biography

The University of Texas Wind Ensemble, conducted by Jerry Junkin, has established itself as one of the world's elite wind bands, commissioning new music and performing world premieres.

Composer's Artistic Vision

John Corigliano drew parallels between the decadence of ancient Rome and contemporary society's entertainment-dominated reality when composing Circus Maximus.