The Sinking of the Titanic

Composed in 1969 and first recorded for Brian Eno's Obscure label, Gavin Bryars' The Sinking of the Titanic' was inspired by reports that the ship's string ensemble continued to play the hymn tune 'Autumn' as the vessel sank in April 1912. Throughout the 72-minute piece Bryars and the ensemble weave refrains from 'Autumn' with layers of Jeck's sample-based materials, creating, at times, clamouring waves of sound that suggest the great engines and massive bulk of the vessel and the ocean that swallowed it. The result is a heart-achingly intimate and direct work. Featuring projection design by Bill Morrison and Laurie Olinder. Performed by Gavin Bryars Ensemble, with Bryars on double bass, Philip Jeck on turntables; with projection design by Bill Morrison and Laurie Olinder.