| 2669 |
IRVIN, Christopher |
ELIZABETH'S GARDENS. A song-cycle for contralto. Lyrics by Freda Kelsall. Music by Christopher Irvin. Specially written for Bridget Budge, and performed at Heptonstall Parish Church Monday 31st, 2010 as part of the 25th Pennine Spring Music Jubilee Season. Accompanist : Jonathan Ellis. Running time : approx. 19 mins
A Small Blue Glove in Municipal Gardens
Harlow Carr
A Wedding Among Roses
In Grandad's Garden
Elegy for a Gentle Man
Da Capo Music Ltd. DC 750 (2010) pp29
THE ARGUMENT:
This Song Cycle almost became a novel. The main characters are:- an unnamed man, a gardener, whose gentle care invites the natural world to flourish around him; his unnamed spouse, who left him when their daughter Elizabeth was too young to remember; and Elizabeth herself.
In the first chapter of her story, she's a little girl who has only just grown tall enough to open the park gates. Without knowing him, she has independent access to her father as he works; he doesn't claim any relationship, but she seems to have inherited his love of gardens.
Sure enough, in the second chapter she's a student of horticulture, she has come of age, and has researched her own roots. There is shy recognition between father and daughter in the gardens at Harlow Carr. From now on their relationship can grow.
Chapter three introduces the character of Elizabeth's mother, excited by a new hat, and unprepared for a sudden reunion with her former partner. Their daughter's wedding among roses promises future happiness, and past differences are reconciled. After all, the family tree is set to branch out.
In the fourth chapter, Elizabeth's children step into the Song Cycle, carrying garden tools and growing up to carry on the work. Patient mentoring by their grandfather has born fruit; they are enthusiastic gardeners - which is just as well. The old man's physical strength is waning.
In the fifth and final chapter of his story, the departing of this gentle man is mourned, not only by the family which has grown around him, but also by the familiar bird companions of his outdoor life, celebrating a fellowship he enjoyed with all the natural world. |
Songs//Art/Lieder/Song Cycles |
£8.00 |
