Here's a stunning new orchestral suite inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Scotland's West Highland Way.
Written after hiking the West Highland Way in April 2023, this ambitious project takes you from Milngavie to Rannoch Moor via Loch Lomond's rugged paths - eventually glimpsing Glencoe and the mountains and high passes beyond. With haunting woodwinds, bold brass, sweeping strings and pounding percussion, the suite captures the wild and windswept spirit of the Scottish Highlands.
The West Highland Way Suite is a must-listen for fans of contemporary classical music and lovers of the outdoors alike.
There are 8 pieces, reflecting the surrounding scenery as it becomes grander:
Leaving Milngavie - on Sunday morning, final hugs before farewell, then off along the path. A relatively gentle day’s walking, the scenery opening up ahead, with glimpses of the landscape and higher ground to come.
Garadhban Forest - where we spent our first night, wild camping near a wee stream - running water and a small flat space among the trees to pitch our tent - what more could you want?!
Lochan Maoil Dhuinne - a secluded wild camping area on the bonny banks of Loch Lomond, we had a lochside pitch with awesome views.
Propelled by Tears and Tunnocks - I continued the hike after my daughter was unwell and had to return home. Through the only rainy day of the week, it was a tough slog north of Beinglas.
Ba Cottage, on Rannoch Moor - isolated ruins of a former home in a very barren area, a wonderful place to camp in "one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe" apparently.
Buachaille Etive Mòr, The Great Herdsman of Etive - a monumental mountain at the gateway to Glencoe, and you get a great view from many angles as you hike around it.
Glencoe in the Springtime - proved a fabulous place to be, with the sun shining and the breathtaking landscapes in every direction.
Lairig Mòr, The Great High Pass - to Fort William, up early and first through, clear spring air and a glorious sight of big Ben Nevis throughout the trek.