The Bow Fiddle

Programme notes

The Bow Fiddle is a 6-minute composition for solo violin inspired by a spectacular rock formation near the village of Portknockie on the north-eastern coast of Scotland. This natural sea arch sculpted by erosion resembles the tip of a fiddle bow, hence it was named the Bow Fiddle Rock. Just as the spectacular rock imposes itself on the hiker’s view, the main theme erupts at the beginning of the composition without introduction. Its poignant ascending interval will appear six times, every time softer and higher to reach the top of the violin’s register. Three other contrasting themes interweave with one another to form a rich sonic landscape: a flowing stream of fast notes, a light-hearted playful tiptoe and a mischievous tremor. In a celebration of life, nature and youth, the musical journey of idiomatic and virtuoso solo violin writing culminates with exuberant energy.

Handwritten sketches and drafts

see cloudy cover, PA5 size, 46 pages sketchbook

Completion of the composition 

28-VIII-2025

Analysis

see page 7 and 8 of the score