for Laura, after Bach

Writing this work in memory of Laura Samuel — the BBCSSO’s beloved leader who died at the age of 48 last November — has been a privilege, if a hugely daunting one. How to pay meaningful tribute to a person so adored by all who knew her? During her illness Laura made an exquisite, joyful recording of the ‘Gigue’ from Bach’s E-major Partita (BWV 1006) and, unforgettably, this recording was heard at her memorial in December. It was a final act of generosity, utterly typical of Laura. My piece for string orchestra is based upon this same ‘Gigue’ and falls into three main sections. In the opening section fragments of Bach’s melody are multiplied and overlayed (often in canon) by the violins divided into four parts. A solo double bass introduces the central, slower section, in which the rhythms and contours of Bach’s original appear much transformed, first in a long melody given to the violas and cellos. The final section returns to the propulsive energy of the opening and leads eventually to a climax in which the canonic violin material and the middle-section “theme” are superimposed. A short, quiet coda closes the work. Although shadows do pass across the music’s surface, my aim has been to try – with Bach’s help! – to write a piece more celebratory than mournful. for Laura, after Bach is a small token of my immense and everlasting gratitude for Laura’s friendship.

© 2025 Ryan Wigglesworth