Premiere of Scott Musical Settings by Sophia Scott

Summary of the Review:

The review recounts a special concert performance held at Abbotsford, where composer and pianist Ronald Stevenson was accompanied by his granddaughter, Anna-Wendy, on violin. The concert featured the premiere of "Scott Music Settings," which was a collection of traditional Scottish airs and ballads arranged by Stevenson and Sophia Scott, Sir Walter Scott's eldest daughter. The event marked a significant occasion, as it was likely the first time the songs had been heard at Abbotsford since Scott’s death in 1832.

Key points include:

• The program was divided into two parts: the first half consisted of five traditional Scottish airs, while the second half featured ten ballads from the "Abbotsford Collection of Border Ballads," arranged by Sophia Scott.
• Ronald Stevenson, a distinguished composer and pianist, has an extensive body of work, including over 500 piano compositions.
• Anna-Wendy Stevenson, a professional violinist, performed with her grandfather, bridging two generations of musical talent.
• The second half of the concert highlighted a series of ten ballads, including pieces like “The Cruel Sister” and “The Laidley Worm,” showcasing varying styles and emotions.
• The concert concluded with Stevenson’s "South Uist Folksong Suite," a work inspired by traditional Scottish folk songs.

An interesting aspect of the event was the philosophical discussion of whether words lead the music or vice versa, relating to the broader themes of the 2007 Edinburgh International Festival. Additionally, the concert's informal atmosphere, with the performers offering introductions to the pieces, created a unique and intimate experience for the audience.



The evening was deemed a rare and memorable occasion, with the impeccable organisation and warmth of the performers receiving widespread appreciation.

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