Philip Underwood
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St Deiniol’s Well (2006)

St Deiniol was born in the early 6th century, the son of a Celtic chieftain. He founded two monasteries, one close to the present day city of Bangor in north Wales. He was consecrated Bishop of Bangor by St Dewi (David). Deiniol died about 584 and was buried on Bardsey Island. After an initial flourish the music relates the events of one of Deiniol's many miracles: Once a woman from Caerwy who had taken poison and was beyond the help of physicians, drank water from his well and threw up numberless worms. We meet the industrious Deiniol preaching to the unconverted, followed by music depicting the well. Next, we enter the world of the poor woman from Caerwy. Eventually she meets Deiniol and drinks from the well. The well music overcomes the poison motif and we hear a hymn of thanksgiving before the opening flourishes return to complete the piece. The musical style reflects the great range of emotions stirred by the story, incorporating elements of bitonality and dodecaphony. The piece is dedicated to Andrew Goodwin Master of the Music at St Deiniol's Cathedral, Bangor in North Wales who suggested writing a work to celebrate the restoration of the Cathedral's Organ due for completion in 2007.

Listen to the composer performing St Deiniol's Well on 13th October 2007 at St Marylebone Parish Church

Duration: 5mins
Available from: Animus music publishing
Price: £3.50