classical
opera
contemporary classical
orchestral
choral
medieval
sacred music
symphonic
psalms
renaissance
thomas wilson
cos
requiem
gloria
contemporary composers
karen peace
living composers
moondance winner
ppac award
small ensemble
string quartets
women composers
colorado vocal arts ensem
cvae
chamber orchestra of the
Story behind the song
The story: Dionysus (aka Bacchus), the god of wine, is preparing for a party. He is running around directing the servants to prepare each little detail until they are perfect.
The guests, though, are already ringing the doorbell to be let in, for they know that this is going to be a really big bash, and of course, the wine is always ever-flowing and Dionysys' parties.
The door opens, and the first guests join the party. Soon after that, Pan, the son of Dionysus, arrives playing the pipe, a theme which runs thoughout most of the piece.
Dionysus, represented by the trombone, is already characteristically tipsy. Thank the gods (wait! he is one!) that he has his capable servants to attend to the guests and keep the party flowing smoothly.
Soon the Nymphs arrive en masse, and all stop, stunned by their beauty. Pan is enamoured. Unfortunately, though, the wine and his high emotion, brings out the dark side of this god (our word "panic" comes from his name), and the nymphs, gentle creatures, faint in terror beholding Pan's wrathful side.
Gently, Pan played his enchanting music again, and the nymphs calm down. The party continues... and as the attendees drink more of Dionysus' excellent wine, they become more and more inebriated, reflected in the music.
Outside, the Bacchantes arrive. They can faintly hear the music inside. They ring the doorbell three times, getting louder and more insistent each time. Finally, they bang on the door, and when the door opens they come charging in with their characteristic wildness..... TO BE CONTINUED!