Book Review: “Iberian Retreat” by John Billing
/Iberian Retreat by John Billing
[Reviewed by Thomas Pedroli, Germany/China]
John Billing is one of those rare lyre players who dedicates his professional life to this beautiful instrument by playing music and giving workshops in many countries around the world, and by writing music that touches the heart. Returning from a long Winter retreat in San Jose, Portugal, John brought back a wonderful booklet with newly composed lyre music: Iberian Retreat.
All five pieces contained in this booklet are typical lyre pieces and well playable on a soprano lyre. Yes, they do need medium to advanced playing skills, so perhaps you will not play them right away by sight-reading, but if you take the time to know them, you will love these five miniatures – each one in a different color and atmosphere. The meditative and peaceful style of the compositions – already articulated in the titles “Dream”, “Awake”, “Under the Olive Tree”, “Peace”, “Sao Jose: Obrigado” - are serving the utmost quality of the lyre: to create moments of deep listening.
Thank you, John, for this beautiful music! Its good to have this music right now!
To purchase Iberian Retreat as a PDF download, click here. Book format also available.