Greyfriars Bobby

Tuesday, 26 January 2016

"Greyfriars Bobby", composed by Sven Markus Hellinghausen, tells the story of a Sky Terrier who became known in 18th century Edinburgh for supposedly spending 14 years guarding the grave of his owner until he himself died on 14 January 1872.

Subtitled ‘The Story of Unconditional Love', the work describes Bobby's life and dedication to his owner. The work opens in carefree mood describing his early, carefree times. There follows a short stressful section and the sound of the cemetery bell where he loses his owner. On the grave the dog moans - Clarinet cadence. Suddenly Edinburgh Castle's one o'clock gun fires followed by a short ‘quietness'. Bobby remembers that there are things that still connect him with mankind and the meals in the local public house where in his mind his owner is still living. The music rises as he contemplates the good times and he returns to the graveside to keep vigil over John Gray, his lost owner.

This charming and nicely scored work is ideally suited for bands of all grades. 

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