Sinfonietta No. 1

Sinfonietta No. 1 is a three-movement work for symphonic wind band, commissioned by and dedicated to Concertharmonie Crescendo Bissegem and its conductor Alain Verhoeven. The composition presents an abstract musical portrait of the orchestra’s origins, development and future, interwoven with personal memories and musical influences from the composer’s life.

The work combines newly composed material with revised ideas from three earlier compositions: Transformation for piano from 2007, Fragments for wind band from 2010 and Hangmat for piano trio from 2013. These materials were thoroughly reconsidered and reorchestrated, with particular attention to playability and to the creation of a richer and more colourful sound world.

A central motif consists of the notes C, B and B-flat, referring to Crescendo Bissegem. These notes also occur frequently in the earlier works and create a connection between the old and new material.

The first movement, Lento misterioso, grows from the gradual emergence of a musical idea. A recurring bass drum functions as a heartbeat, while themes, harmonies and instrumental groups slowly develop and eventually converge.

In the second movement, Scherzando, different sections of the orchestra are placed in dialogue and sometimes in opposition. Its restless character evokes youthfulness, curiosity and the search for one’s place within a larger ensemble. A contrasting Sognando passage introduces a more dreamlike atmosphere.

The final movement, Allegro feroce, looks from the past towards the future. Earlier motifs and personal musical references return in music characterised by strength, determination and an increasingly energetic upward motion. The work deliberately avoids ending with a completely closed and stable chord, suggesting an orchestra that remains diverse, dynamic and ready to continue growing.