Orillia Panorama

Laclie
Brant
Canice
Tecumseth

Like most composers, I’m sure, I have a “wish list” of pieces I would like to write, just waiting for the opportunity. For a long time, my list has included a piece for wind ensemble, so when Roy Menagh, music director for the Orillia Wind Ensemble, contacted me about commissioning a new work for them, I enthusiastically accepted the invitation.

The four movements of Orillia Panorama find their inspiration in the city and surroundings of Orillia, Ontario. I am always fascinated by the history of places, and as I delved into the history of Orillia, I was intrigued by the development of the early market square and its subsequent move a little further south, to what would eventually become the city centre. I imagined what it might be like to take myself back in time, to stand in that original market square and then to see the city and countryside develop and grow around me as the years pass into the present.

The four streets that bordered the first market square provide the titles for these four short character pieces. From the middle of that square and looking to Laclie, to the west, we see the rolling countryside now so popular in the winter with skiers. Brant, to the north, looks out upon the peaceful vista and beautiful fall colours of cottage country. Turning to the east, Canice faces the waters of Lake Couchiching, sparkling in the summer sunlight. Finally, Tecumseth looks to the south, where the city’s industry sprang forth, most notably in the area of car manufacture, and now the direction of many a morning commute.