DESCRIPTION:
The Witch And The Saint si another programmatic tone poem. It is baced upon the novel by Ulrike Schweikert and is constructed in five distinct sections. The opening depicts the birth of two twin sisters born in 1588 in Elwangen, Gremany. In those times, the birth of the twins was considered a bad omen and as the sisters grew up, it became clear that they had the gift of second sight and could predict future events. The thematic material repersenting both sisters is first introduced in this section along with a medieval, Gregorian chant-type motif. The second section of the piece is the development of Sibylla's theme. This sister led a horrible life and her gift was looked down upon. Many townspeople feared Sibylla and considered her to be a witch. After a breif transition, the theme representing the other sister, Helena, is introduced in it's entirety. The third section of the piece is the development of Helena's theme. The sister was sent away to a convent when she was a child. While at the convent, Helena is revered as a saint because of her visions. The fourth section of the work is a turbulent section repersenting the struggles both of these sisters had in their lives. Eventually, Sibylla is imprisoned and Helena returnes to the town to save her sister. The fifth section and the finale of the work depicts the return of and the rescue of her sister, Sibylla. As they are trying to escape, the sisters are captured once again and this time, for fear of being burnt at the stake, the saint, Helena, drinks some poison. She dies in her sisters arms and Sibylla, the witch, rides off in sorrow.

-Steven Reineke

From the Walking Frog Records Concert Band CD "New Day Rising: The Symphonic Works of Steven Rieneke" performed by The Washington Winds

Available on the C.L. Barnhouse website as a full score of full score with parts.
CD Available on the Walking Frog Records website as a CD or digital download (coming soon)