London Landmarks (Orchestra)
 
A Three-movement Suite for Orchestra by Stuart Dean
 
London’s landmarks are among the city’s greatest treasures. They are iconic, steeped in history, and remain a constant draw to visitors from around the world.
 
First Movement – Historic Landmarks (of London)
 
Introduction. The introduction contains brief clues alluding to what is to come and concludes with a short extract from "They're Changing Guard At Buckingham Palace" - the gateway to the first landmark: Buckingham Palace. This expansive opening theme depicts the magnificent façade, which is the Royal Family's principal place of residence, the impressive Victoria Memorial that stands before it, and the beautiful gardens that surround it. Interrupting fanfares represent the time-honoured ceremony of The Changing of the Guard that is synonymous with the palace. Cathedral and Abbey. St Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey are beautiful buildings and places of worship. They are a central part of the fabric that is London's long and illustrious history. The music here includes part of the Evensong Prayers and Responses, and a reference to the hymn, "All Things Bright And Beautiful", before it concludes with the bass section stealing away to announce the next landmark with a short phrase from Zehle's quick march, Trafalgar. Nelson’s Column - Trafalgar Square. The nation's tribute to our greatest naval hero, Admiral Lord Nelson, was erected in recognition of his decisive victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. The music becomes suitably nautical - in the style of a Sailor’s Hornpipe - with the French Horns offering up two short quotes from another of Zehle’s quick marches, Viscount Nelson. The Houses of Parliament - subtitled Big Ben. The music here echoes this most majestic of buildings, the Nation’s theatre for all matters of state. The Westminster chimes can be heard ringing out from its clock tower, affectionately known to all as Big Ben. Horse Guards Parade and The Mall. The scene of The King’s/Queen’s Birthday Parades (The Trooping of the Colour) and all manner of pomp and pageantry throughout the years. The first movement concludes with fanfares and pealing bells in a fitting and joyful celebration of this great city.
 
Second Movement – The Cenotaph (A Whitehall Elegy)
 
Built in the wake of The Great War 191 4 - 191 8 – “The War to end all wars” – the Cenotaph (Empty Tomb) has been the scene of The National Act of Remembrance since it was erected in 191 9. The entire movement is based upon the traditional military bugle call associated with War Remembrance and Military Funerals, "The Last Post". It is first stated antiphonally in the trumpet section, before being taken up more widely by other sections of the orchestra and developed.
 
Third Movement – Modern Day Landmarks (of London)
 
The London Eye. Originally called the “Millennium Wheel”, this 135m tall structure stands on the South Bank of the River Thames. It is a giant observation wheel.
An “eye over London” affording those who ride in one its thirty-two glass capsules a 360-degree panoramic view of the City. The Royal Parks. Eight Royal Parks offer modern day visitors free access to London’s natural and historic green spaces. They are places of relaxation, recreation, half marathons, and a wonderful habitat and haven for a variety of wildlife. The Shard. Standing at 1,016 feet high, this imposing glass-clad pyramidal structure is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and Western Europe (2026). Seventy-two habitable floors house offices, restaurants, hotels, and a viewing gallery that provides breath-taking views. West End Theatre. London’s West End is the epicenter of British theatre. With around forty venues in districts like Covent Garden and Soho to choose from, a night at the theatre is the most fitting way to conclude matters after a day’s sight-seeing visiting London’s Landmarks.
 
Front Cover: Image designed by sentavio / Freepik (www.freepik.com)