A natural rubato is felt throughout this haunting, single-movement work (initially composed in 1984 for string quintet as "Opus 1", and then newly arranged in 2015 for full string orchestra by Anthony Weeden - in collaboration with the composer - as "Opus 15").

The sound is reminiscent of that of ancient church music. Written in the stile antico, it opens with a “Plainsong”, then comes the main central “Anthem”. There is a brief reprise of the opening theme, before the work closes with a more emphatic “Fantasia” (where the sense of rubato becomes almost improvisatory). The work, as a whole, may be said to comprise a poignant “prayer” for strings.

Ideal duration is ca. 11 mins.

ISMN 9790720171678. ASCAP/MCPS Registered.