Reflective Thoughts On a Cliff Top (3’ 20”)

 

This was inspired by a poem written by a friend, Michael Gibson, which takes us in evocative imagery to different coastal parts of the British Isles. This piece uses an excerpt from the poem, which enters as spoken word towards the end, where it is to be read over the piano texture. I was particularly moved by this part of the poem, that refers to the “white cliffs”, where the reader joins the writer, sitting looking out to sea: thoughts are turned to the significance of the white cliffs’ image during World War Two, which will remain with us forever. This is the section of the original poem that inspired this piece.

 

 

The opening of the piece, with its static octaves, in the calm key of F major, tries to capture that tranquil moment of staring out over a calm sea. It isn’t long before the harmony under the octaves becomes twisted and dissonant. The calm octaves remain for much of the time; a contrast to the harmony, which subtly shifts between the calm and the dissonant.

 

Towards the end, the words (to be read) of the poem poignantly come over sparing, single notes: “Cliffs: with their white facade of chalk, a reminder to all of the living, that in these small isles, they represent a freedom paid for with blood, sweat and tears”. The opening returns, but this time, we have by now, been on the musical journey, and it has a bittersweet feel. 

 

Notes in the form of text are written on the music in italics, to aid interpretation.

 

Throughout the piece, there are references to “The Last Post”.

 

 

(This recording was made with the friend who wrote the poem).

 

 

All money from the sale of this piece, either in sale of score or mp3 downloads or performance royalties, will be donated to The Royal British Legion or Help For Heroes.

 

 

Price:

Score £3.50

 

Listen here: