Deux Danses

Hopkins Deux Danses for organ was composed in 1983 and was premiered by James Walker at the AGO Far-Western Regional convention in June of that year. The titles for each of the dances were suggested by two legends from Greek mythology. The title of the first dance, Mirror of Medusa, refers to the tale of the Medusa. She was one of the three fearsome monsters called Gorgons. Her body was covered with scales, her hair was a mass of twisting snakes, and whoever looked at her turned into stone. In the legend, Medusa was slain by the Greek hero Perseus, who used a shield of polished bronze as a mirror with which to see her. The title of the second dance, The Circle of Bacchants, refers to the followers of Bacchus, the God of Wine. The Bacchants, being frenzied with wine, rushed through the wilderness uttering shrill cries and performing frightful deeds. Part of the Concert Organ Series.