• Simon Holt
  • 5 Settings of E.D. (2005)

  • Chester Music Ltd (World)

Commissioned by Bill and Elizabeth

  • countertenor (or mezzo soprano), oboe
  • 10 min
  • Emily Dickinson

Programme Note

In November 2000 I wrote a "A lament for Ewen Henderson" for oboe and countertenor, for Melinda Maxwell and David James to perform. Ewen Henderson was a potter of distinction who I never actually met, but I was invited to write a piece for a memorial event in his name. This was at a time when Emily Dickinson's poetry was uppermost in my thoughts and it seemed natural that I should turn to her for the text. I have long felt the need to add to this solitary piece and so last year (2005), I added 4 more settings also to poetry by Emily Dickinson. The music is very pared down and abbreviated, hence the title. It is approximately 10 minutes long.

(c) Simon Holt 2006