La Mar d’Amunt, for symphonic band

La Mar d’Amunt, meaning “The upper sea”, refers to the northern part of the Costa Brava. Specifically, it describes the stretch of the Mediterranean between Cap de Creus and Cervera Point, which lies in France. This Mediterranean coast line is open, spectacular, and steeped in history. It’s also where I’ve spent much of my life, in Port de la Selva, where I have my second home. My mother’s entire family is from this village.

From this place, I’ve drawn the inspiration to compose this piece with the rhythms of the sea and the essence of Catalonia. Each movement includes a traditional Catalan folk song, evoking different and contrasting moods:

“Nocturnal” captures the essence of the night by the sea. A muted trumpet introduces a folk melody that transitions into a more contemplative theme in the lower register. The sound of waves gradually builds, growing in intensity. The piece reaches a brief climax before gently fading back into the original folk melody.

“Esquitxos” (Sprinkles) is a fast, energetic movement, mimicking the aggressive splashes of water within an unstoppable rhythm. Following an A-B-A structure, the central section features a folk melody played by the French horn, always surrounded by the presence of water. In the final section, the two themes are skillfully combined.

“Amorosa” (Amorous) is the tender, sweet, nostalgic, and romantic movement—the true emotional core of the entire piece. A lyrical and pleasant melody gradually grows more passionate, filled with echoes of youthful love. The sea waves mirror the agitation of these beautiful love stories.

“Vent del nord” (North Wind) concludes the piece with the raw power of the fierce wind typical of Empordà, known for its strong and whistling gusts in this region. The movement is filled with crashing waves and a variety of sounds, depicting a turbulent and agitated sea. In the middle section, a folk melody introduces a moment of lyricism, providing a needed contrast to the intense and aggressive texture of the movement.

Salvador Brotons