The Approaching Storm - Rob Wiffin

A brilliant overture reflecting the strength and renewal of the phoenix.  The phoenix symbolises transformation, death and rebirth in its fire and this overture starts with great positivity as the main ‘phoenix’ figure is stated.  The brass pronounces its emphatic fanfare intertwined with the spiralling woodwind figures and then the music bursts into an energetic fast tempo.  There are contrasting darker episodes and a lyrical middle section before the phoenix finally re-emerges triumphant.