"Just Like That" is a heartfelt reflection on the profound loss my family experienced with the passing of my Uncle Jake, a beloved figure in our lives and a local legend in Liverpool. The title captures a phrase he often used, embodying the simplicity and complexity of his larger-than-life persona.

This composition emerges from a place of raw emotion, channeling the sadness, nostalgia, and love we felt during a year of deep reflection. The music is intentionally simple, mirroring the straightforward yet powerful way my uncle approached life. It serves as an emotional landscape, guiding listeners through the stages of grief and remembrance, inviting them to share in our collective journey.

Inspired by the works of Arvo Pärt, "Just Like That" employs minimalist techniques and rich harmonies to create an atmosphere of introspection. The strings weave together gentle, flowing lines that evoke both sorrow and solace. Each section of the orchestra plays a crucial role in building an emotional tapestry that reflects the layers of memory and loss, reminding us that love endures beyond physical presence.

The piece unfolds in thematic motifs that represent different aspects of my uncle's life and character, transitioning between moments of reflection, melancholy, and ultimately, a sense of acceptance and peace.

"Just Like That" is not only a tribute to my uncle but also an exploration of the universal experience of grief. I hope it resonates with anyone who has faced loss, offering a space for contemplation and healing through music, and serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of those we cherish.

Just Like That - For String Orchestra

Musician, proud multilingual Scouser, and the tenth winner of the Rushworth Composition Prize with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Andrew’s sound is shaped by his rich heritage, with West African, Caribbean, and Irish roots. He began his musical journey at 13, learning the piano and bass guitar in secondary school, where he discovered a deep love for music that would shape his life.

Andrew thrives on artistic collaboration, sharing experiences, and fostering intercultural dialogue. His musical influences are diverse, drawing from classical, jazz, traditional world music, electronic, contemporary classical, and progressive rock/metal. This eclectic mix fuels his dynamic sound, which extends far beyond his classical training.

He studied Languages at The University of Leeds, during which time he spent two years at La Universidad de Granada in Spain and also studied Jazz & Classical music at L'Université de Montréal in Canada. Fluent in six languages and speaking ten altogether, Andrew’s multicultural background is at the heart of his creative process.

Andrew is currently the Pianist-in-Residence at the Arts Bar Orchestra under conductor Gaianeh Ghazaryan, and a Composer-in-Residence at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, where he is composing for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir and the 10:10 Ensemble. He also sings with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir under conductor Matthew Hamilton.

As an international collaborator, Andrew has performed across the UK, Canada, and Europe, with his ongoing Origins project being a core part of his work. Origins is a deeply personal exploration of his multicultural background, weaving together influences from his West African, Caribbean, and Irish heritage. The project combines diverse musical genres, blending classical, jazz, electronic, and world music to create a distinctive sound that is both a reflection of his roots and an invitation to explore the shared human experience through music. Origins is a journey of discovery, capturing the richness of his identity and the power of intercultural dialogue through sound.

In addition to his current work, Andrew is thrilled to be an Artist-in-Residence at Opera North for 2025, where he will continue developing Origins in collaboration with other artists and composers. This residency allows him to push the boundaries of his creativity, bringing new dimensions to the project and forging deeper connections within the wider arts community.

Just Like That - For String Orchestra

Andrew Barney