A Musical Whispering of Arden from Across the Sea
Here at Soulton Hall, the birthplace of Shakespeare’s enchanting comedy As You Like It, we always feel a particular thrill when its magic resonates anew in the world.
So, it was with a special joy that we noted the recent paperback publication, of Alfred Reed’s lovely musical work, Rosalind in the Forest of Arden: A Sylvan Serenade for Winds After Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It‘.”
In the world of wind band music, the name Alfred Reed resonates with a legacy of vibrant, expressive, and elegant compositions.
While his extensive catalogue boasts over two hundred works, there’s a particularly enchanting place for Rosalind in the Forest of Arden, composed in 2005, the year of his passing, this work, offers a poignant and beautiful final chapter in Reed’s musical storytelling.
For those familiar with Shakespeare’s delightful pastoral comedy, the inspiration for this piece is immediately clear. The Forest of Arden, a place of refuge, transformation, and blossoming romance, provides a rich tapestry of emotions and imagery for musical interpretation. Reed, a master of painting vivid sonic landscapes with wind instruments, takes us on a journey through this sylvan setting, capturing the lyrical beauty and gentle spirit of the play.
Knowing that Rosalind in the Forest of Arden was among Alfred Reed’s last creations gives it with a special kind of beauty. It invites us to listen with a sense of both appreciation for his enduring contributions and a touch of wistful reflection on the end of a significant musical voice.
