Aurora Dances was commissioned by the Hong Kong-based Winter Band Festival, and consists of three movements, to be played without a break. Aurora Borealis opens with florid woodwind figures and highlights different sections of the band in turn. The second movement Aurora Australis leads to a sombre chorale, which builds to a full-band climax. The finale Aurora Dances is characterised by rhythmic, dance-like themes. A central section features a contrasting legato melody, but this doesn't dispel the energetic feel of the opening, which returns to close the work.
Duration: 8.45
