Maxwell Davies, Sir Peter: Sonata

Sequentia Serpentigena

for Cello and Piano

The Sonata, in six movements, is the direct outcome of Peter Maxwell Davies’ encounter with the ‘pievi’ – early medieval rural churches – of Tuscany. He writes: ‘In particular, it was inspired by the elusive and enigmatic nature of the imagery of their stone carvings. I have concentrated on just one image, that of the snake, which in Jewish and Christian tradition is a symbol of temptation and betrayal, and of sinfulness in general. However, in the pievi, older significances, which can be traced back to Estruscan times, can be discerned, and these meanings, quite contrary to the usual readings, are now beginning to be fathomed, helping us to understand for instance why the piece of San Vito in Corsignano has no stone carving apart from decorative elements, and that of small, extended snakes.’ (Peter Maxwell Davies)