If you want to perform a work, we ask that you purchase the score and parts at the CMC Shop.
To view and submit your loan, please click on My Loan Requests
Reflections On "O Canada" After Truth and Reconciliation: Sesquie for Canada's 150th is a TSO co-commission with the Memorial University Chamber Orchestra. Canada Mosaic is a Canada 150 Signature Project. This project was funded in part by the Government of Canada.
For works with ten or more performers, instrumental parts are available for rent.
to submit a rental request.
"Writing a meaningful two-minute piece is disarmingly difficult. The challenge is: how does one create meaningful art in this medium? As I pondered this, I had a creative spark. What would our national anthem sound like in a different mode, minor perhaps? I was immediately struck by the simple, poignant transformation. It reminded me of the shame and sadness that I felt when I learned about the Truth and Reconciliation report. The transformed anthem is reflected four times in a canon in the high strings, four entries for the four original provinces of Canada. The canonic reflections are framed by fanfare blasts from the winds and brass, fixed in flag-waving patriotism.
This may be seen as somewhat of a sombre choice for a celebratory commission, but it is honest and powerful. Part of celebrating Canada at 150 is being aware of our past—the good and the bad."
"La composition d’une pièce de deux minutes est tout à fait désarmante. Le défi : créer une oeuvre concrète et éloquente dans cet intervalle de temps. En y réfléchissant, un éclair m’est venu. Et si notre hymne national était transposé dans un autre mode, le mode mineur peut-être? Une transformation simple et saisissante qui m’a tout de suite captivé. Cela m’a rappelé la honte et la tristesse que j’ai ressenties après la présentation du rapport de la Commission de vérité et réconciliation. L’hymne transformé est joué quatre fois, en canon, dans le registre aigu des cordes; une fois pour chacune des quatre premières provinces du Canada. Les cuivres et les bois encadrent ces motifs canoniques d’éclats de fanfare évoquant un patriotisme exalté.
Un choix sérieux et sombre pour une oeuvre de célébration, mais on ne peut plus honnête et puissant. Célébrer le 150e anniversaire du Canada, c’est aussi prendre conscience des bons et moins bons moments de notre histoire."
Canadian Music Centre has been supporting, preserving and celebrating the works of Canadian composers since 1959. As proud and passionate advocates, we offer innovative resources for discovering, exploring, listening to and playing Canadian music online and in five regional hubs.