Jerker Johansson: War and Peace: Blasorchester

War and Peace was commissioned 2021 by The Royal Swedish Navy Band and conductor Alexander Hanson to mark the celebration of The Svea Life Guards’ 500th anniversary. I. ”Fanfares and Battle” opens in a heroic and optimistic nature but changes abruptly as the medieval hymn Dies Irae, Day of Wrath, brakes in. The battle commences. The movement ends with a recap of the opening part. II. ”In memoriam” is a funeral march in memory of war victims and suffering people. III. ”Peace and Rejoice” pictures soldiers and people celebrating that the war is over. The music reflects an atmosphere of dignity, optimism and joy for life.