spaceman

'Too Cold to Sleep' is a reflection on the situation in which many vulnerable people are finding themselves in these difficult times. The discordant opening theme represents the gentle rocking of a cradle. This theme is twisted through nine variations, the fifth of which is an emotional meditation for solo violin. The opening theme returns, leading to a gentler and more beautiful version of the theme that sinks into a sense of acceptance.

'Too Cold For Sleep' for Violin and Piano (Studio Recording)

This piece uses the text of the Declaration of Commonwealth Principles, Singapore 1971, and Emily Dickinson's poem, 'Hope is the Thing With Feathers'. It is being performed by the Band of the Scots Guards and the Commonwealth Scholars' Choir.

'The Hope Of The Commonwealth' recorded By The Scots Guards

We've Got Good News

This setting of Psalm 139 is set with an arrangement of a traditional Bengali folksong.

Psalm 139 (Bhatiali)

Useful for the confession in the communion service.

Confession

This is a worship song about the value of sabbath rest.

You Give Rest To All Your Children

The tarantella is a dance from Taranto in southern Italy, the place that gave its name to the tarantula spider. Samuel Johnson described the tarantula as, ‘an insect whose bite is only cured by musick’. If bitten, you would dance a Taranella to drain the poison, with frequent shouts of ‘Hey!’ at moments of high excitement. Fans of the children’s TV show ‘Spider in the Bath’ may pick up on a cheeky reference to the theme tune.

'Too Cold For Sleep' for Violin and Piano (Studio Recording)

Ian B Wilson

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