I was delighted when, late in 2024, I received a request from Jordi Morell, on behalf of the Swan Ensemble, to compose a quintet for the strings of the group. I had, just then, been working on a number of the melodies I had composed as settings of the poems of the Scottish poet, David Cameron. These were originally solo melodies, set for unaccompanied voice. I have found Cameron’s poetry is innately musical, and often reveals everything I need to make any sort of setting.
The invitation from the Swan Ensemble gave me a fine instrumentation, and an occasion to write for, so I applied myself to setting four of my favourite Cameron inspired melodies, of which there are a great many. These are titled: 1. A Blessing, 2. For Winter, 3. Sometimes the Summer, and 4. Gifts. The four movements of A Little Swan Suite are contrasting in mood and energy, although they are all in triple meter, in keeping with the poetry. The Swan Ensemble and I remain open to the eventual possible addition of more movements to the suite.
I am grateful to Jordi Morell and to the members of The Swan Ensemble for their dedication to these miniature pieces and for including them in their programs.
This performance will take place on June 19th at 7:00PM at the Aurora Town Square: David de Simone performance hall in Aurora Ontario.
For more information and to book your tickets, please visit the Aurora Town Square website.
