Book Review: “Variety and Poetry - A New Volume of Preludes for Soprano Lyre” by John Billing

Second Book of 8 Preludes for Soprano Lyre

A new volume of preludes for soprano lyre by John Billing

[Reviewed by Christian Giersch, Germany]

It is always very fortunate for the lyre and its development when compositions arise that are inspired entirely by the lyre itself and how it is played, rather than by imaginations of different instruments. Regarding the preludes by John Billing one can say that they are sounding forth straight out of the heart of the instrument. And no explanations are necessary in order for them to be understood by the human soul.

Each piece is given a clear key signature which, in most cases, is never veered from (there are hardly any accidentals). In this way the composer achieves a very deep in-breathing of the respective tonal sphere in major or minor. Equally clear and approachable are the rhythmical motifs, which give each piece it's individual character. Here has come about a wonderful unity between imagination (in the invention) and consequence (in keeping with a motif). And while practicing, the player will be richly rewarded, although the pieces are not for beginners. They come out of a musical realm of thirds, which we think we know from the classical and romantic periods. But these pieces present this realm as if in a new, clear and unsentimental light, as is the case with so many other pieces by John Billing.

I wish the preludes many industrious players — thank you, John!

A “Second Book of 8 Preludes for Soprano Lyre” is available in our web store as a printed booklet (click here), or as a PDF download (click here). Our store features music books and journals, PDF downloads, and accessories. For a current list of featured book reviews click here. Be sure to check the LANA blog for monthly reviews!