The Eruption

‘The Eruption’ was commissioned by VLAMO as a test piece for the ‘Vlamo Open Harmoniekampioenschap 2021’ (VLOH) in CC Zwaneberg (Heist-op-den-Berg – Belgium). Pimpanit Karoonyavanich wrote this new work during the lockdown caused by the Covid-19 virus pandemic. This whole new living situation has also affected Pimpanit like most people very much. The title “The Eruption” should therefore be understood as the invasion of this new virus and not as a volcanic eruption.

The work opens with a dramatic theme with which the composer depicts how the virus is cruelly changing the entire world. But like every coin has two sides, we also see two effects in our society. Because entire population groups have to stay at home because schools, offices and companies stop or severely restrict their activities, traffic is also greatly reduced and there is hardly any flying anymore. As a result, a strong improvement in air quality is quickly registered as much less CO2 is emitted. As a result, nature can recover to some extent very quickly.

We hear this contrast in the composer’s inspiration in the different atmosphere between the first and the second movement. The slow part also reflects the loneliness of many people caused by the virus. After all, everyone longs to be able to see their beloved family and friends again soon.

In the third part, the dramatic theme returns. Karoonyavanich deliberately ends the work with a perfect fifth. With this she reflects the purity of the universe. The composer thus makes the link with the circle of existence or reincarnation, one of the core beliefs of Buddhism.