ERIN THOMSON
Erin is one of the composers selected for our Opus 1 scheme for 2023. Here she takes the Opus 1 Q&A challenge.
How did you get into composition?
When I was young, I thought I would be a singer-songwriter. I wrote very embarrassing and cringey songs that I’d sing along to on my keyboard. I eventually abandoned my terrible lyrics and began to write for solo piano, which led to me pursuing composition.
What sort of music do you like to write?
I find it hard to find the words to describe my music, but I would say that I’m interested in using instruments to create a unique sound-world. I like the idea of my music being consuming and immersive, simple but at times unpredictable. I also like to draw a lot of inspiration from my Scottish heritage and our beautiful landscapes and culture.
What excites you most about being part of Opus 1?
I’m mostly excited to meet the fellow composers and instrumentalists. I’m looking forward to building relationships and hopefully we can learn a lot from each other in the process - I’m eager to see what new music everyone comes up with.
What 3 pieces of music would you have to have on your desert island?
Thomas Tallis Spem in Alium
Anything at all from the Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh and Thomas Bartlett album
Tears for Fears Everybody wants to rule the world
What is the best snack?
Maltesers - but it has to be the chocolate bar version.
About Erin
Erin Thomson (b. 2000) is an award-winning Scottish composer from the outskirts of Glasgow whose work has recently been performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Martyn Brabbins and was awarded the Musicians’ Company Silver Medal in 2022 at their installation dinner in Goldsmiths Hall, London. She has had her work performed across Scotland; in Aberdeen, St Andrews and Orkney as well as venues such as the prestigious Glasgow’s City Halls and Edinburgh’s Usher Hall. Erin's work has also received international acclaim, having been performed in New York City in 2022.
Find out more at Erin's website.
