A Day in the Life of a Garden

Programme notes

Robert Casteels recorded sounds from gardens and parks in Singapore. The music integrates sounds of rain, thunder, birds, frogs, and nature lovers walking with the music played by the instrumentalists. The piece begins by depicting a misty sunrise in a park, then livens up as park enthusiasts enjoy their brisk morning walk. Rain starts to fall, and lush strings accompany a chorus of baritone and bass bullfrogs in E-flat until nature unleashes thunder and lightning.

After the storm subsides, the walk resumes. The pace quickens as joggers pass by. As they catch their breath, a second passage of warm strings leads to a joyous assembly of chirping birds. Crickets signal the approaching night as the sun sets. Commissioned by the Garden City Fund, A Day in the Life of a Garden was first performed in 2003 at Singapore’s Istana and is dedicated to all nature and park lovers.

The Garden City Fund is a crucial part of Singapore's strategy to become a "City in Nature." Established by the National Parks Board in 2002, it is a registered charity and an Institution of a Public Character. Its primary goal is to cultivate a love for the environment and encourage community participation in conserving Singapore's natural heritage.

Score follower

see link #2

Recording

see black cover logbook #2

Completion of the composition 1-X-2003