Composer: Sally Beamish
Works: Gala Water (1994) for cello solo; Bridging the Day (1998) for cello and piano; Entre Chien et Loup (1979) for piano solo; Lullaby for Owain (1985) for piano solo; Kyle Song (1993) for piano solo; Iasg (1993) for cello and piano; The Wise Maid (2000) for cello solo; Sonata for Cello and Piano (1999-2000)
Performers: Robert Irvine (cello), Sally Beamish (piano)
Recording: Danderyd Grammar School, Sweden, August 2000
Label: BIS
Sally Beamish, born in 1956, has established herself as a formidable voice in contemporary classical music, seamlessly blending elements of her biographical experiences with her Scottish surroundings into a lyrical and often poignant musical language. This anthology, “Bridging the Day,” spans a 21-year period of her career and showcases a range of works for cello and piano that reflect not only her personal journey but also the evolution of her compositional style. The intimacy of the performances, particularly with Robert Irvine, her husband and cellist, enhances the emotional depth of the pieces, making them resonate with a unique authenticity.
The recording begins with “Entre Chien et Loup,” a piece from Beamish’s formative years that reveals her early fascination with the sparse textures and angular lines reminiscent of Webern and Dallapiccola. While the work articulately presents these influences, it lacks the mature expressiveness found in her later compositions. In contrast, “Lullaby for Owain” emerges as a deeply personal tribute, reflecting the composer’s own experiences and maternal sentiments. The simplicity of its melodic lines offers a gentle, nurturing embrace, underscoring the emotional weight of the subject matter. However, it is in “Kyle Song,” described as a “boat song,” where Beamish’s voice begins to emerge with more clarity. The piece captures the essence of its maritime inspiration through a flowing melodic structure that evokes the serene movement of water, demonstrating Beamish’s growing ability to infuse her work with a sense of place.
The collection progresses to more substantial pieces, particularly “Bridging the Day,” which serves as the thematic anchor of the album. Inspired by the interplay of light throughout the day, Beamish deftly manipulates the cello’s voice to evoke the shifting atmospheres from dawn to dusk. The interplay between Irvine and Beamish is particularly noteworthy here, as they navigate the ebb and flow of the piece’s structure with a palpable sense of intimacy and understanding. This fluidity is contrasted by “Iasg,” where Beamish conjures a narrative of a salmon’s journey, employing a more aggressive and gritty language that captures the struggle and tenacity of its subject. The central section, depicting the tranquil feeding phase, showcases a lyrical quality that is a hallmark of Beamish’s style, allowing the cello to sing in a manner that is both haunting and beautiful.
The Sonata for Cello and Piano stands out as a culmination of Beamish’s influences, incorporating elements of jazz alongside her distinct lyrical palette. The second movement, a scherzo, reflects echoes of Thelonious Monk, with its playful rhythms and syncopated motifs, while the slow movement, “Ballad,” reveals a simplicity that resonates deeply. Irvine’s interpretation here is particularly moving, as he captures the fragile beauty of the lines with a tender touch. The recording quality deserves commendation; the acoustic space captured at Danderyd Grammar School allows for a warm and natural sound, although at times, the cello could be more prominently featured in the mix to enhance its dialogue with the piano.
This collection is a testament to Sally Beamish’s distinctive voice—a voice that is intricately woven with personal experience, cultural heritage, and innovative musical language. The performances by Irvine and Beamish not only highlight the technical prowess of both musicians but also their deep emotional connection to the works. As a result, “Bridging the Day” stands as a significant contribution to the contemporary cello repertoire, inviting listeners into a world where personal narrative and musical expression coalesce in beautifully crafted soundscapes. This disc is not only a commendation of Beamish’s artistry but also an invitation for new audiences to explore the rich emotional terrain of her music.
