Score and parts for hire

Commissioned by the CBSO, ‘Falling Down’ is one of those rare creatures, a concerto for contrabassoon and orchestra. The title explains itself: the piece begins and ends with music that tumbles from the top of the orchestra down to the depths where the contra lives. The dialogue in between is a dark capriccio intercut with lyrical moments. The orchestra isn’t set in opposition to the soloist (except in strength of numbers); other deep and dark instruments (tuba, cor anglais, bass drum and lion’s roar) have parts to play. There is a concertante part for two sets of timpani placed on opposite sides of the stage. ‘Falling Down’ is dedicated to Margaret Cookhorn, the CBSO’s wonderful contra player.

© John Woolrich