Castle Ward - Temple Dancer in Blue

Classical facade, Castle Ward
Classical facade, Castle Ward

The next two pieces are pure musical whimsy with an Irish twist. They represent the architectural whimsy of Castle Ward itself. Family history has it that Lord and Lady Bangor could not agree on the architectural style for their new home, or else agreed to disagree, so they created two façades in the two different architectural styles in vogue in the mid 18th century – Classical and Gothic. Both Temple Dancer in Blue and Lady Anne's Fancie share the same foundation – in musical terms, harmony and pulse. 

 

Lord Bangor wished his new home at Castle Ward to reflect the Classical Palladian architectural style and Temple Dancer in Blue represents the front façade of the building. The musical inspiration for the piece was taken from Satie’s Gymnopedies – pieces reputedly inspired by a Grecian vase decorated with temple dancers.