Nigel Hess's arrangement features the main theme from the film score of Ladies in Lavender, a 2004 film directed by Charles Dance and starring renowned actresses Dame Judi Dench and Dame Maggie Smith. Designed for easy to intermediate players, this piece is specifically arranged for cello with piano accompaniment, making it accessible for musicians looking to perform a poignant and melodic work from cinema.
Fantasy for Violin and Piano was written for the final scene of the film Ladies in Lavender. Although supposedly composed by the fictional Boris Danilov, the job of creating an authentic period piece fell to the film's composer, Nigel Hess. The piece was performed on the soundtrack by Joshua Bell with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
The book captures the essence of 21st-century London through musical compositions that explore iconic landmarks. It portrays the pedestrian experience on the Millennium Bridge, highlighting the journey from Tate Modern to St. Paul's Cathedral. The piece inspired by the London Eye offers a musical "flight" that mirrors the stunning views from the Ferris wheel. Additionally, it humorously reflects the challenges of urban life, showcasing the bustling traffic and the city's response to congestion with a lively and comedic touch.
Silent Nights is a collection of beautiful carols imaginatively arranged by Nigel Hess for piano solo, suitable for intermediate to advanced players (Grade 5--7). Contents: Angels, from the Realms of Glory * Away in a Manger * Ding Dong! Merrily on High * God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen * Hark the Herald Angels Sing * Infant Holy, Infant Lowly * It Came Upon the Midnight Clear * O Come, All Ye Faithful * O Come, O Come, Emmanuel * O Holy Night * O Little Town of Bethlehem * Once in Royal David's City * See Amid the Winter's Snow * Silent Night.
Embarking on a whirlwind global journey, this composition features a vibrant tour of various countries, starting with the iconic chimes of Big Ben. Each destination, including France, South Africa, and Australia, is represented with rich musical themes that challenge the technical abilities of the performers, especially in percussion. The piece culminates with a return to Big Ben, capturing the essence of travel and cultural diversity in just over eight minutes, making it an exciting experience for youth bands.
Nigel Hess' film score for the film, Ladies in Lavender, directed by Charles Dance stars Dame Judi Dench and Dame Maggie Smith. Nigel has arranged the main theme from the film for violin and piano. The soundtrack, performed by virtuoso American violinist Joshua Bell and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, is available on Sony Classics.
The composition features a contrast between dark, foreboding themes and moments of lyrical beauty. It opens with a menacing atmosphere, introduced by a solo trumpet that leads into a central theme. This theme is interrupted by a chorale for clarinet choir and harp, before returning in various forms, including a cinematic rendition. An unsettling march-like section adds tension, but ultimately, the piece concludes with a triumphant and optimistic finale, showcasing a journey through contrasting emotions and musical styles.
Set against the backdrop of the Catskills Mountains in upstate New York, this work captures the region's unique blend of tranquility and power. It serves as the second movement of East Coast Pictures, a suite of three short pieces inspired by the diverse geography and vibrant communities of the American East Coast. Through evocative imagery, the author reflects on the profound connection to this landscape, drawing readers into its majestic allure.