Rhodania

Tone Poem • 2025
Grade 5 (hard) • ca. 12 min. • FC Music Publishing

Instrumentation : Picc, 2Fl, Ob, EH, 2Bsn, CBsn, EbCl, 3Cl, ACl, BCl, CbCl, 2ASax, TSax, BarSax, 3Tpt, 4Hn, 3Tbn, 2Euph, 2Tba, Clo, DBass, Hp, Pno, Timp, 3Perc

My native region of Valais (Vallensis, meaning 'valley' in reference to the Rhône Valley) is full of mountainous landscapes where water and rock converge. When hiking in the mountains, it is not uncommon to come face to face with magnificent scenery: rivers, bisses (irrigation channels) and waterfalls all bear witness to the grandeur of nature. The waterways of my region have always fascinated me, balancing beauty and danger.

Rhodania is an ode to the Rhône, the mighty river that originates from the Rhône Glacier in Valais, flowing into Lake Geneva before continuing south to France. The piece takes the form of a symphonic poem with different sections that describe the river and the landscapes through which it flows.

I. … of stones and rivers (… de pierres et de rivières)

The first part depicts the grandeur of the Rhône and its glacier, as well as the rugged Valais landscapes through which the river flows. A majestic theme accompanied by a chorale evokes the descriptive and cinematic style of the landscape, while a faster, more rhythmic central section captures the river's sometimes uncontrollable nature.

II. vineyards & still waters (vignobles et eaux calmes)

While Valais is renowned for its wine production, the canton of Vaud is also a major player in this field. Lavaux, a region with magnificent views and excellent wines, borders Lake Geneva where the Rhône flows into it. The central theme of the piece depicts tranquil, sun-drenched landscapes and draws inspiration from the Vaud song 'Le vigneron monte à sa vigne' ('The winegrower climbs up to his vineyard').

III. mistral winds, lavender scents (vents de mistral, senteurs de lavande)

After crossing Lake Geneva, the Rhône continues on its journey through France towards the Mediterranean Sea. Much wider than in Switzerland, it flows through magnificent regions known for the mistral, a dry wind that blows from north to south, as well as for their vineyards. This third section has an adventurous theme and highlights the magnificent landscapes, before a short final section recapitulates the main themes.

The piece was commissioned by the Harmonie Lausannoise and its conductor, Antoine Rabut, for their gala concert on 7 December 2025.