Ghosts of The Cathedral

Ghosts of The Cathedral was written to accompany a video of Bristol Cathedral, which was recorded in the style of a horror film. The footage begins with an old map of Bristol that becomes more and more distorted as the camera zooms in. The music reflects the disturbing nature of the images with heavy chords and chilling harmonics from the violins. The scene then changes to Bristol docks, where synthesised elements create a deep and churning texture. Cello and trombone solos keep the music flowing forwards, much like the blackened water in the docks. As a shot of Bristol Cathedral comes in to view, the trumpets play a menacing fanfare, accompanied by dark brass chords.

The central section of the film takes place inside the cathedral. Sinister harmonies are used to highlight various images of tombs and grotesque figures. There are also various instrumental solos, giving the music a sense of openness. This is in contrast with the heavy sections earlier on. There is a brief moment of lyricism from the strings, as light enters through a stained glass window, but this is short lived. Next is a change of location to St Peter’s Church, and the brass evokes a military spirit during an image of a war memorial. The piece ends with discordant harmonies, as wide shots of Bristol Cathedral’s exterior show off the full glory of it’s architecture.

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