The official Aberdeen anthem for this summer’s much-anticipated Tall Ships spectacular was given its premiere today (Thursday 27 March) to great acclaim.
In another first for The Tall Ships Races, the event's official mascot - Dorry the Dolphin - made a debut appearance at the special lunchtime concert in Aberdeen Art Gallery's Cowdray Hall.
Primary 4 pupils from Abbotswell School sang ‘The Sea Journey’ l to an audience of 150, including composer Clara-Jane Maunder who wrote the piece for the Aberdeen City Council Music Service pupils to celebrate the Tall Ships return to the city.
Clara-Jane, a former Music Service pupil who went on to study at Aberdeen University and is now an emerging professional composer was delighted with her composition’s public debut which named familiar Aberdeen landmarks.
She said: “It has been a real delight to work on this commission for Aberdeen City Music service over the past couple of months, and it has been even more wonderful to hear it performed in such a beautiful and enthusiastic way by pupils from Abbotswell Primary School.
I benefitted hugely from the Music Service’s instrumental tuition, ensembles, and orchestras as a young person, so this has been an absolute full-circle moment. It has been truly wonderful to have the opportunity to write for the next generation of young creatives, inspired by the city I grew up in.
“‘A Sea Journey’ follows the journey of a sailor (maybe from this century, or maybe from long ago) as they return to Aberdeen after a long time at sea, continuing with them past familiar parts of Aberdeen’s coastline until they arrive home to the Granite City.).
Clara-Jane’s delight was shared by Councillor Martin Greig, Chair of the Tall Ships Organising Committee, who said: “It was a pleasure to be here today on such a joyful occasion.
“The pupils gave a wonderful performance of Clara-Jane’s stirring composition which will be a real symbol of the Tall Ships and our great maritime city. The song will be a splendid long lasting legacy of this year's Tall Ships experience. Joining in with the words and music is a great way to share in the celebrations and the fun."
The piece has been written as a flexi score which means that it can be performed by different combinations of musicians such as a full orchestra and choir, or sung by a soloist and string quartet. This allows the piece to be used as much as possible in different settings including not only the Tall Ships festival but also the forthcoming Big Sing 2025.
Also among the captivated audience were Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen and Adrian Watson, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Inspired. Mr Sanguinetti said: “I’m thrilled to have been part of this memorable occasion today. The students showcased an outstanding performance of Clara-Jane’s captivating composition, which perfectly embodies the essence of the Tall Ships and reflects the rich maritime spirit of our city. This remarkable piece will leave a lasting impression, serving as a wonderful reminder of this year’s Tall Ships event.”
Mr Watson said was also charmed by the pupil’s performance, saying: “It was a magical moment to hear the talented pupils of Abbotswell School give this moving piece of music its premiere.
“This might be the first time we have heard Clara-Jane’s soaring work, The Sea Journey, but it won’t be the last. I am sure this enchanting composition will become a much-loved and oft-performed anthem for The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen.
“Today was very much about firsts for The Tall Ships Races, with Dorry the Dolphin's debut appearance making a splash at the concert. Such a fun and loveable mascot for the Tall Ships, Dorry will become a familiar sight on city streets in the weeks to come.”
Aberdeen Sinfonietta is premiering Clara-Jane's second Tall Ships piece "The Coast" on 18 May at The Music Hall concert on maritime-related orchestral music.
https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/whats-on/aberdeen-sinfonietta-far-and-away/
Meanwhile, Dorry will be popping up around the city over the coming weeks at the Bucksburn Community Council Event, Peterculter Gala, Big Belmont Bash and Aberdeen Highland Games
