About this programme

Donald Macleod visits Sally Beamish (b 1956) in her home near Loch Lomond, to talk about her work. Sally has been composing since she was a child but only set out on the path of professional composer after moving to Scotland in 1990, having already established a successful career as a viola player. Today she discusses her earliest commissions and how moving to Scotland, and motherhood, influenced her decision to become a composer. Sally Beamish: Commedia (excerpt). Hebrides Ensemble. No, I'm Not Afraid (Six poems by Irina Ratushinskaya). Geoffrey Cox (oboe), Swedish Chamber Orchestra, conductor Ola Rudner, narrated by the composer. Tuscan Lullaby. Mary Wiegold (soprano), Composers Ensemble, conductor Dominic Muldowney. Symphony No 1. Royal Scottish National Orchestra, conductor Martyn Brabbins.