Paul Lewis – Two Portraits (‘Cello or Bassoon & Harp or Piano)

Two Portraits are musical pictures of the composer's erstwhile partner harpist Elizabeth Jane Baldry's sons, composed in 2003 when they were in their early teens. Edmund was serene, loving and spiritual, a cathedral chorister and sensitive harpist.  Alex, also a chorister, was by contrast energetic and extrovert – a true bringer of joy and happiness, he played the French horn and was given to spontaneous jazz improvisations on the piano. The two movements are therefore contrasting melodic pieces, the first serene and lyrical with the opportunity for some legato playing, and the second unexpectedly lively and jazzy and a chance to let the musical hair down!

Review: "Harpist Elizabeth Jane Baldry and I were delighted to premiere these attractive miniatures for cello and harp. The first piece, Edmund, is exquisite, with a dreamy cello melody supported by lush, jazz influenced harmonies. It lies comfortably under the fingers so is suitable for cellists of intermediate standard and above. The second piece, Alex, is written in a lively blues style, requiring some technical agility, and is great fun." – Rachel Firmager, July 2014

Biography

Lewis, Paul

Paul Lewis, born in 1943 in Brighton, England, has composed prolifically for British television since the age of 20, as well as producing a large body of tonal and melodic concert works. His TV scores for drama series such as Arthur of the Britons and The Prisoner of Zenda, children's series such as Seal Morning and Woof! and comedies such as Monty Python's Flying Circus and The Benny Hill Show have been heard all around the world.  His instrumental works, several of which are in the U.K. exam syllabuses, are usually happy and romantic, inspired mostly by favourite places, close musician friends and loved ones. The Campion Cameo label has issued a CD of his TV themes, and his orchestral concert music appears on CD alongside the music of other English composers such as Arnold, Holst and Delius. Some of Paul's flute and harmonica works published by Broadbent & Dunn are also available on Campion Cameo. See www.paullewiscomposer.com for full details.