Roma Sacra Luigi Zaninelli

With the opening sound of distant church bells, we are drawn into a work inspired by the grandeur and magnificence of the Eternal City. Drawing from his Italian Catholic roots, Zaninelli demonstrates his unabashed love for Rome. It is quite easy to fall victim to the enchanting beauty of Roma Sacra, as it is an unending arch of melodic inspiration. For anyone who has even been moved by greatness or hoped to experience the power of past history, this musical journey cannot be overlooked.

Instrumentation
Piccolo
Flute 1/2
Oboe 1/2
English Horn
Solo Clarinet in Bb
Clarinet in Bb 1
Clarinet in Bb 2/3
Bass Clarinet in Bb
Contralto Clarinet in Eb
Bassoon
Alto Saxophone in Eb 1/2
Tenor Saxophone
Baritone Saxophone

Trumpet in Bb 1
Trumpet in Bb 2/3
Horn in F 1/2
Horn in F 3/4
Trombone 1/2
Trombone 3
Bass Trombone
Euphonium
Tuba

String Bass
Harp (May be synthesized)

Timpani
Keyboard Percussion 1 (Chimes, Bells)
Keyboard Percussion 2 (Vibraphone)
Percussion 1 (Tam-Tam, Suspended Cymbal, Crash Cymbals)
Percussion 2 (Bass Drum)

Program Notes
Commissioned by the University of Illinois Wind Symphony

In 1951, at the age of 19, I first saw Rome. I was awe-struck by its beauty and grandeur. There is an aura of mystiqual magic which envelops me whenever I am there. At dawn, dusk, or by moonlight I sense the ghosts of the past. Roma Sacra is inspired by these powerful feelings which have never ceased to haunt me.

- Luigi Zaninelli