Abstract
Composed for The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, to celebrate the re-opening of the earthquake-stricken Christchurch Town Hall, Symphony No. 5 uses childhood as a metaphor for regeneration, and creates sound images related to childhood – the sound of pots and pans for example.
Symphony No.5 ('Childhood') marks somewhat of an evolution in Ritchie’s writing, as he further embraces the minimalist techniques that have influenced his previous work. Beautiful, expressive solo passages emerge, particularly for oboe, while elsewhere the orchestra becomes swirling and thunderous as if mimicking the chaotic action of a packed playground, creating an affecting portrait of this magical first stage of life.