We are devastated to learn that Harry, Sir Harrison Birtwistle, has passed away. Our thoughts are with his family. We are ever so grateful that in 2019, after long preparation, we were able to give the premiere of his BCMG commission …when falling asleep, setting words by Rainer Maria Rilke (“Zum Einschlafen zu Sagen”) and Algernon Charles Swinburne. Very sadly, this has turned out to be one of his final works. He will be sorely missed.

Sir Harrison Birtwistle's music has been a prominent part of BCMG programming, culminating in the world premiere performance of Three Songs from the Holy Forest in a celebratory performance in 2019 to mark his 85th birthday.

 

Watch dear dusty moth from 'Three Songs from the Holy Forest' by Sir Harrison Birtwistle, performed by BCMG

 

  

Watch Cantus Iambeus by Sir Harrison Birtwistle, performed by BCMG

  

 

Watch Roddy's Reel by Sir Harrison Birtwistle, performed by BCMG and an online audience in lockdown

 

 

Watch Duet no. 4 for violin & flute by Sir Harrison Birtwistle, performed by BCMG's NEXT Musicians

 

Watch compositions inspired by Pulse Sampler by Sir Harrison Birtwistle, performed by 
Creative Composing Lab participants