In the tripartite 'Cowboy Suite' Alan Laken takes us to the Wild West the domain of cowboys indians trappers and other fortune hunters. Around 1890 the west coast of America was reached which in effect meant the end of the Wild West. Its stories however survived and have been a source of inspiration for many books films and of course music. Some characters such as Jesse James Billy the Kid and Buffalo Bill are forever linked to these tales. In the 'Cowboy Suite' we first hear the 'Hoedown'. At the end of an exhausting workday the labourers used to lay down their tools among others the 'hoes' and spontaneously began to play music on the instruments which they then possessed (guitars fiddles and banjos) and to dance. After being jolted on the 'Wagon Trail' we reach the third part the 'Cowboy Roundup'. In this last part it becomes clear that as a cattle driver it is imperative to stay firmly seated in the saddle. As the cattle are rounded up i.e. driven together spectacular things happen.

‘Bi-Millennial Celebration’ has been composed to honour the 2000th anniversary of the founding of the city of Nijmegen. This work consists of three continuous movements. The first movement depicts the arrival of the Romans and the founding of Nijmegen. The second movement portrays the rustic and idyllic countryside surrounding the city. A musical celebration from these areas to the city of Nijmegen comes to life in the third movement. In this festive march one can easily distinguish the traditional Dutch anniversarysong ‘Lang zal ze leven’.

The pilgrim's song Deilig er Jorden can be called an international carol. The Norwegian text was written by Danish poet Inge Bernhardmann on a melody of Polish origin. A majestic carol! Therefore particularly suitable as an opening work for your Christmas concert. Optional with organ.