Sinfonietta nº1 - Galaica, Op. 48

Instrumentation: Band

Duration: 12 min

Level: Medium-Advanced

Year: 2020

Score and parts included (digital)

Commissioned by: Braga Symphonic Band Competition (2020)

Program Note:

Commissioned by the Braga Symphonic Band Competition 2020, this work is inspired by the theme “Braga 2020 — Capital of Culture of the Atlantic Axis.”

Evoking the ancient Bracara Augusta, once the capital of Gallaecia, the piece offers a sonic journey through Galician-Portuguese roots and the vibrant cultural identity of Braga.

Originally conceived as a dance suite, it evolved into a continuous form with three distinct movements:

• Cantiga de Maldizer, an opening of raw medieval vigor and rhythmic energy, inspired by the Galician-Portuguese troubadour tradition.
• Semana Santa, the emotional heart of the work, evokes the Ecce Homo procession and its liturgical atmosphere, reflecting the city’s spiritual heritage.
• Muiñeira, a festive and relentless Galician dance that brings the piece to a joyful close, demanding every instrument to “dance” along.
• Balancing solemnity and celebration, Bracara Augusta embodies the living tradition of Portuguese wind bands — both on the concert stage and in the streets of their beloved festivities.

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