Hill of Tara stands as a powerful symbol of Ireland’s rich cultural and mythological heritage. This concert piece captures the spirit of that sacred landscape—the gentle undulations of the earth, the echoes of ancient rituals, and the enduring soul of a nation. Located at the heart of the Boyne Valley, the Hill of Tara is often regarded as its crown jewel. From its summit, one can gaze across the rolling green terrain to other sides of the valley. For over 5,000 years, Tara has been a place of burial, assembly, and reverence—a ceremonial center steeped in both history and legends. Most famously, it was the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, whose mythical reign was said to encompass the entire island. The five ancient roads of Ireland once converged at Tara, linking it to other key ceremonial sites such as Crúachan, Emain Macha, and Dún Ailinne. Through broad musical lines and flowing rhythm, Hill of Tara invites listeners to walk those ancient paths, stand atop the sacred hill, and feel the pulse of Ireland’s timeless spirit. This piece is dedicated to the composer’s sister-in-law, Tara—a strong and resilient woman, mother, and friend. One imagines the High Kings might have learned a thing or two from her perseverance and determination.
Els De Sadeleer (1992) is a Belgian composer, music educator, clarinetist, and percussionist. She began her musical journey at the August De Boeck Academy in Asse. Soon Els performed with the local wind band—first on clarinet and later as a percussionist. With her unique blend of personal expression and solid theoretical knowledge, Els creates music that speaks to a wide audience. Her passion for composition began at an early age, sparked by playful experimentation with music notation software. That early curiosity blossomed into a deep commitment to the craft, leading her to study at LUCA School of Arts, Campus Lemmens. There, she earned a Master’s in Music Pedagogy, a Bachelor’s in Composition, and a teaching degree, studying under composers Jeroen D’Hoe and Pieter Schuermans. As a seasoned arranger, Els has shown her aptitude for HaFaBra. Her experience in arranging nurtured her technical skills and led to a whole scala of original compositions. She composes for a wide range of ensembles, including wind bands, choirs, solo instruments, and chamber groups. Her works are known for their craftsmanship and joy of performance—music that is both rewarding to play and engaging to hear.
