program notes by composition > M > March and Procession of Bacchus
March and Procession of Bacchus
Leo Delibes/arr. Eric Osterling
March and Procession of Bacchus is taken from Act II of the ballet Sylvia, ou la nymphe de Diane . Brass flourishes and a pompous atmosphere characterize the first section where in the ballet the satyrs (mythological deities with long pointed ears and short horns) enter with their javelins. Next the maidens enter, bringing a goat for sacrifice. The revelry begins with the quickening of the tempo, after which a slow-moving melody suggests the arrival of a wine-drinking god followed by a continuation of the pranks of the frenzied company.
Léo Delibes (1836-1891) was a French composer of ballets, operas, and other works for the stage.
Last updated on July 6, 2013 by Palatine Concert Band
