Here is the latest part of my ‘Warter’ project; a piano solo inspired by the act of walking on the Yorkshire Wolds around Warter.
The music reflects the gentle undulation of the hills, stopping sometimes to appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Bird calls are heard particularly the ever-present red kites and alarms of pheasant and grouse. It is a peaceful place where you really can immerse yourself in its charms away from other worldly sounds. You can really be in the moment, listening to your own footsteps.
Musically, following large chords there are two elements . A busy theme giving the music an onward drive and alluding to the act of brisk walking, and a lyrical theme which emerges. This is ‘An Acre of Land’, a well-known East Yorkshire folk tune as timeless as this unchanging landscape. I have included points of repose in the music with the relaxing of the tempo suggesting moments of reflection; looking around.
The piece ends with an embellished version of the opening chords, but disappearing into the distance with a slow reminder of the walking music recalling a good day’s walking perhaps!
