New Publication Available
- Peter Byrom-Smith
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
I’m very happy to announce another new publication of mine is now available.
Written for Double Bass and Piano 'Ancient & Modern' is a suite of six pieces, inspired by J.S. Bach and the Baroque era. It was commissioned by David Heyes for Recital Music’s 40@40 project to celebrate the publishers 40th birthday in 2026.
As anyone who knows me, or my music, they’ll know that all genres of music are my compositional orbit, so to speak. However, I have always been attracted to the music of the Baroque, especially J S Bach. I don’t actually know what it is that drew me to his dance suites in particular, but the very first piece I ever heard of his was a recording of music from one of his suites performed by guitarist Andres Segovia. As a young composer this was a musical turning point for me. I was so enamoured with this music that I sought the printed scores of his suites for Cello, Lute and the Orchestral ones too. The construction of these works using the popular dance forms of the time, with his harmonic invention, rhythmic pulse and melodic lines, all enthralled me in equal measure.
So, when I was commissioned to write a new work for music publisher Recital Music’s 40th anniversary this year, I decided this was an ideal opportunity to compose a work in a similar vein, but updated to 2026. Written in 6 separate movements, similar to the Baroque suite, a few of the same dance forms of that period; whilst others are more modern providing a complementary and contrasting work in both tonal texture and form. Apart from the first movement ‘Prelude’ and the final one ‘Gigues and Reels’ the other movements each contain a contrasting central section, with a more modern twist, or two, allowing the musicians and listeners a moment of inner smiles and foot tapping fun.
How to sum the of the whole suite, well, I suppose a little bit like James Bond’s favourite drink - whilst either listener or performer - be prepared to be shaken slightly, but a little bit stirred too. A huge thank you to David Heyes and Recital Music for supporting my music; it's always a pleasure working with you.
The six individual movements of the work are:
1. Prelude
2. Allemande in Blue
3. Courante
4. Sarabande
5. Waltz
6. Gigues and Reels
Please check out the link below to find more details about how to obtain a copy, and other information.
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