Northeast Clarinet Convergence - Samson and Delilah, Bacchanale

Live performance at Midwest Musical Imports.
Bacchanale from “Samson and Delilah” (1877) - Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921) (arr. Matt Johnston)
The Bacchanale from “Samson and Delilah” reflects the height of the French Grand Opera tradition of the late 19th century, characterized by elaborate sets, huge casts, and productions of epic scale. The piece is renowned for its exotic and elaborate soundscape, echoing a broader cultural fascination with “The East” during that period known as orientalism. It’s important to note that this representation is rooted in Western perspectives and may not authentically depict the cultures it seeks to portray. Nevertheless, the Bacchanale is recognized for its stunning portrayal of decadence, expertly setting the stage for Samson's climactic act of defiance.