Loch Ard Suite - Scottish piano music by Richie Murray
Music inspired by scenery near Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire, Scotland
The suite comprises four short piano pieces being composed by Richie Murray and inspired by locations close to Loch Ard and The Pass of Aberfoyle near Aberfoyle, Stirlingshire, Scotland. The compositions are dedicated to the composer's wife's parents, George and Barbara (Barrie) Meek, who spent much of their married lives in the area and had strong attachments to, and affection for, the places featured.
I. The Ben
The 'Ben' is Ben Lomond which is visible on the west horizon when viewed from Loch Ard. 'Ben' is the Scots word for peak. Within the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Ben Lomond is the most well-known peak.
II. The Narrows
Loch Ard is in two distinct parts that are divided by a winding ribbon of water that is known locally as 'The Narrows'. Careful navigation is needed to guide a rowing boat through this area as it contains some very shallow stretches.
III. Duke Murdoch's Island
In the 'top' loch (the main, westerly part of Loch Ard) there are some small islands. Within the family, the largest of a small group of three of these islands is known as 'Duke Murdoch's Island'. A small ruin is located on the island.
IV. The Pass
The 'Pass' refers to 'The Pass of Aberfoyle' which is the narrow stretch of land that runs between the 'bottom' loch (easterly part of Loch Ard) and the hills to the North just west of the hamlet of Milton.
