Sally Beamish

Programme Note

This work is inspired by the Orcadian George Mackay Brown's poetic and innovative novel, Magnus, which tells the story of the martyred saint Magnus Erlendson. St Magnus gave his life to achieve peace in the Orkney Islands when his cousin Haakon would no longer accept joint rule.

The title comes from a phrase describing the childhood of the two earls: Haakon remembers 'rock pools in the sun, a cage of doves, small flung fists and tears and reconciliation.'

The music refers to the Northern light and seascapes which pervade Mackay Brown's writing. Throughout the piece, fragments of the ancient 'Hymn to St Magnus' - unusual and distinctive in its use of thirds - are heard.

The ideas of conflict and resolution are expressed in a set of small sea scenes. It is said that a 'bright, heavenly light' was seen above Magnus' grave shortly after his death; this is reflected in the return of the Hymn at the end, overlaid with the calling of doves.