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This short piece explores the richly varied timbres of the viola for which I have always had a special affection (possibly due to my having been a very unpromising student of the instrument in my teens!) The basic trajectory of the music is a long upwardly flowing melodic line, by turns contemplative and lyrical. This is interrupted by versions of contrasting sonorities and episodes. Prayer is dedicated to Ginny Macbeth, in gratitude for, and recognition of, her persistent efforts to help classical music in general and contemporary composers in particular. It was commissioned by the Friends of the Nash Ensemble, and lasts about 7 minutes.

'Anderson's transfiguring Prayer made the strongest impression. Barely 10 minutes long, Prayer embraces every aspect of faith on its steady rise through the registers - complaint, tirade, plea and finally, acceptance.'
The New York Times [David Allen] 8 June 2015