Viaje en el topo
‘Anything
For You’ is a fun piece for string orchestra, full of vibrancy
and forward propulsion. It is a jovial invitation to dance, and will
work well in lighter programmes and as a really effective ‘encore’ piece.
It is suitable for orchestras of varying sizes, although ideally the
string sections should be of at least 6-6-4-4-2 player numbers to convey
the intensity, and to appreciate fully the more humorous effects. Amongst
the things to specially point out in this well-crafted piece are the
bass-line ostinatos, the frequent moto perpetuo inner lines, pop/jazz
melodies on top, the percussive effects from the violas, and brief
references to the opera ‘Carmen’ and even to flamenco … It
has been one of the most successful lighter classical pieces of Johnstone,
having been played frequently since its first performance in 2001.
The sub-title (‘Viaje en el topo’) refers to the small
coastal train that connects San Sebastian to the French border - indeed
the piece has a constant ‘busy rush-hour feel’ that well
resembles a daily train journey. The work is dedicated to the Basque
National Orchestra in San Sebastian and their manager German Ormazabal
for their help and interest in the ‘Swinging Strings’ project.
