Dancedancedance, for Viola

When asked to write for a solo string instrument, no one can think of topping J. S. Bach. But we can be inspired by the way he used dance forms of his time as bases for his imagination. I wondered what if he had been Juan Sebastian Bacque and lived in Cuba, what might come of that? I explored the wonderful world of Latin American dance forms to create five movements for solo viola that show off both the wonderful tonality of the instrument and the talents of its enthusiasts. I am indebted to Gabrielle Bond who commissioned this set of pieces for her graduate recital and worked with me on technical matters. The pieces can be played separately or as a suite.

Viola solo

• Australian Music Centre, 1998