Abstract
The Flower of Cities (2012) Stephen Goss (b. 1964) For violin, two guitars, percussion, and double bass. John Williams has commissioned composer Stephen Goss to write a new work especially for this 50th anniversary Festival, taking its title from William Dunbar’s poetic tribute to England’s capital: ‘London, thou art the flower of cities all.’ More famous for its landmark buildings such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Gherkin, the City of London is also home to around 200 areas of open space. ‘The Flower of Cities’ explores this maze-like array of secret gardens, churchyards, and plazas, which is concealed within the densely developed heart of London. From Finsbury Park Circus (London’s oldest public park) to Bunhill Fields (a burial ground for over 1,000 years), each space reveals its own story and unique contribution to the history of the City of London. www.stephengoss.net