Symphony Dragon Poem by Ahmad Shiddiqi

(dedicated to Mr. Daniele Gatti, Mr.Charles Dutoit, and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra)

Rondo identity
vigorous rhythmic
ingenious harmonic
imperceptible transition

a faster tempo
a mysterious dance
a melodic extension
trio for oboes, and harp

a tonal diversity
a myriad exciting way
a singing lyrical theme
unusual accompanying harmony

song-like shape
pentatonic scale
vigorous patterns
strongly reminiscent

audible tonal switch
exclusive folksong
beautiful melody
dramatic effect

a few simple chords
enters in a different key
finding its way back into
the succession of themes

the tonal plan
fantastic elaboration
extremely high range
expressive pianissimo

a huge arch
unmitigated joy
inseparable feeling
an Alberti bass figure

soft staccato notes
slow unaccompanied solo
for violins, tuba, and celesta
pathetic opening for bassoon and flute

rushing scales
clarinet playing in
its middle register
hammered out by timpani

a little melodic flourish
an ascending perfect fourths
Moderato section is born gradually
more exuberant and vibrant to the end

jubilant brass sounds
delicate pizzicato in viola
meditative chorale voices
is played softly by the organ

restless spirit
temporary relief
boundless energy
philosophical questions

meaning of
life and death
sufferer is redeemed
mourner receives consolation

the funeral march melodies
the fierce pursuit resumes
in amidst of turbulence
faith and confidence

human endeavors
an elemented outcry
alto and soprano enters
without any accompaniment

recurrent musical archetypes
ABA form to ABABA
a charming episode
from a hero's life

fanfare of terror
introspective nocturne
frightened strange-sounds
a gloomy pianissimo assai

Schubert rhythm
asymmetrical path
an eight-bar periods
from major to minor

quick tutti strokes
one glorious theme
follows another sharply
almost super creature intensity

a wonderfully soaring
a poignant feeling
an indelible tune
a gentle hue

tonal beauty
a strong praise
immerse deeply
unbridled dynamism

intrinsic, vast, and populist
memorable outgoing
mellifluous depths
melodic swing

unfolding drama
unforgettable plea
The Olympian power
The Odyssean adventure

brittle and percussive
shattering intensity
electrifying score
musical treasure

(inspired by Hokusai's The Dragon of Smoke Escaping from Mt Fuji)