for oboe, bassoon, violin, viola and piano
The Sowing: Dance (bassoon)
Psalm (violin)
Weaving Song (oboe)
Blessing (viola)
The Reaping
Inspired by ancient songs and blessings of the Outer Hebrides, this piece is a celebration of the islanders' sense of God's immediacy in daily living. They walked with God, with Mary and the saints, addressing them tenderly and familiarly, and involving them in every small task of the day - each of which would bear accompanying songs, blessings and prayers.
I do not intend to imitate Gaelic music, although some influences may be present. This piece is a collation of music for different occasions, in which I hope to mirror a universal truth.
Songs and Blessings was commissioned by the Hebrides Ensemble, and the composer was the viola player in the premiere.
It was commissioned and first performed by the Hebrides Ensemble, with the composer playing viola, at City Halls, Glasgow 1991.
Sally Beamish 1991