Laudatio

French Horn

By Bernhard Krol

Laudatio is Latin for eulogy, which is fitting for this obviously mournful and desolate piece. The adagio section at the end is particularly effective. An entirely metronomical execution is inappropriate for Laudatio. The pauses should not be too short; timing in this, as in poetry, is essential for full effect...

. Each pause point is crafted so as to leave the audience hanging, so don't fear about losing the audience when you take your time with Laudatio's pauses. Never rush ahead with anything in this one. The piece tests the dynamic capability of the player, from an intimate pianissimo to a commanding forte. Play it right, and your audience will need to decompress. I used it a couple of times at a synagogue for the Holocaust Remembrance Day with tremendous effect on the congregation, some going into tears. It's supposed to be that sort of piece.