Fanfares and Fancies on a Popular Air (2014)

I chose a very familiar tune of Max’s, Farewell to Stromness, as the basis for this short set of variations.

Over the years, Max has been an important part of my life; both as a dear friend, and as a trusted and wise advisor. His music has had a profound influence on my work, and he remains a constant source of inspiration.

The music is celebratory and dance-like by turns, with the theme, which I find beautiful and touching in its simplicity, appearing only at the end.

Fanfares and Fancies on a Popular Air was written to celebrate the 80th Birthday of Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, as part of the Max at 80 celebrations at Glasgow Concert Halls. It was commissioned by Glasgow UNESCO City of Music, and first performed by Sally Beamish and Michael Bawtree, Glasgow City Halls Recital Room, on 14th September 2014.