Twilight Pieces
by William Baines
(1899 – 1922)
Transcription by
James Beneteau
In the three short movements that comprise Twilight Pieces (1921), one can hear what a skillful and imaginative composer William Baines was, and at such a young age. The character of this music is introspective throughout, balancing the conditions of contemplation, reverie, longing, and awe. As much as the title of the first piece suggests the influence of nature, it also conjures a world that is liminal, for instance, one that feels as if suspended in a solemn semi-slumber. On the whole, it’s a music that both evokes and bestows dreams and wonder. The guitar strikes me as an excellent medium through which to express these ethereal and enigmatic qualities.
Within a year of composing this work, Baines died at the age of 23.
James Beneteau
For more information about William Baines
Movements:
- Twilight Woods – a Fragment
- Quietude
- A Pause of Thought
Download the original score for piano:
Here’s the recording of the first movement by Steven Watson:
