Judith Bailey: Concerto for Orchestra Op. 55

This work was written for Jean Waller, principal 'cellist of the Southampton Concert Orchestra, having been commissioned for her birthday on 18th July 1996 by her husband Patrick. The composer's birthday falls on the same date.

The first theme, in the solo woodwind, represents water, appertaining to Cancer the Crab. The second theme, in the solo brass, represents a ruby, the Cancerian birthstone. A part for 'cello solo links the various sections of the work.

The score is inscribed with the Chinese proverb : "Keep a green bough in your heart and the singing bird will come" and contains this picture painted by the composer.