Performance Notes
The Realside is an attempt to reconcile the dichotomy of feelings towards religion and, in particular, the notion of an ‘after
life’ from an agnostic point of viewpoint. The text was dervied from various sources such as the Bible, poetry and lyrics
from pop songs which are paraphrased or alluded to not only in the text but also in the music.
The solo soprano represents the spiritual side of the argument, whereas the solo tenor represents the agnostic,
pessimistic side. There is no narrative as such, but there are discernible sections which correspond to certain experiences
and thoughts. The tonal language is diatonic to ensure that the ‘pop’ elements can be fully integrated into the composition
without sounding alien to the work as a whole.
Key performances
World Premiere - BBC Singers 75th anniversary
17.09.99
Venue: St Johns, London, UK
Performance - Spitalfields Festival
04.06.01
Venue: Spitalfields, London, UK
Conductor: Stephen Cleobury
National Premier
11.09.02
Venue: St. Michael's Episcopal Church, New York, USA
Performance
03.11.06
Venue: Temple Church, London, UK