Burning Strawman – Farewell to Winter

As in many regions across Europe, the people of Remich,Luxembourg, symbolically burn away winter every year on Ash Wednesday. This tradition marks the end of Carnival and the transition into both the Lenten season and the approaching spring.
The opening of the piece allows us to experience winter in all its intensity. The season represents cold, rain, and darkness, but also stillness and stagnation. On Ash Wednesday, the community then makes its way through the town in a festive procession, accompanied by a traditional song, dancing children, and a straw figurerepresenting winter. It is the last moment to embrace the exuberance of Carnival — a time when people can still be loud, colourful, and a little “crazy.”
Gradually, the atmosphere begins to change. The procession slows down and transforms into a funeral march. Together, the crowd makes its way towards the bridge. Once there, the straw figure is set alight. The crackling flames can be heard as the final spirits of Carnival disappear and winter is finally laid to rest.
Eventually, the burning straw figure falls into the water. This moment symbolizes cleansing and renewal. Deep within, the warmth of the coming spring can already be felt — a season of new life, growth, and hope, laying the foundation for a fruitful summer.
BURNING STRAWMAN wascommissioned byand dedicated to "Harmonie Municipale Concordia Remich" (LU) for its 150th anniversary.

Sheet music available from summer 2027