Two Poems for Solo Piano by Perth Educator Robert Wallace Laird
Listen to one of the pieces played by Robert: https://www.youtube.com/
A Note from the Composer To the pianists. You may wish to consider the inspiration behind each piece before playing these works as a way to gain some insight, or perhaps before reading on, you may wish to learn the pieces first and see what imagery and emotions come to mind. I much prefer the latter, and if you agree, then read no further until after you have learned the pieces.
Both Poems were composed in a very short period over a couple of days. The poems were born out of small motifs and in the moment improvised into existence. Poem No.1 was given its subtitle from a student of the composer after he played the poem to his students. One student in particular captured the feel of the poem coining the subtitle “A Joyful Memory”. The memory behind the poem is that of the composer’s sons playing in the garden on a hot summer day with the water sprinklers on, dancing through the water. The opening theme captures the moment the game begins, when the water is turned on with a burst of joy and laughter before it ends subtly as the children move on to another game.
Poem No.2 was also played to the composer’s students and in a moment that was truly moving, the very same student described the memory behind the poem which brought tears to the composer’s eyes. When asked what her thoughts were on the poem, the student began to explain how the opening section reminded her of a family dinner, the middle section depicted a close family member who could not attend but was sorely missed and the final return theme, a feeling that all is well despite the great absence of that special person. It was poignant when the student shared this story, as the piece had indeed been written on a day when the composer’s family gathered for dinner to celebrate a family member dear to all in attendance. Her name was Flo and unfortunately, she could not attend the dinner to celebrate her birthday. In memory of that evening by the Swan River, the composer gave Poem No.2 the subtitle, “By the Swan River” and dedicated the piece to Flo Cue.
- Robert Wallace Laird
Pieces
Poem No.1 Op.36 - A Joyful Memory
Poem No.2 Op.36 - By the Swan River
