David Ellis writes: 'This collection of five short pieces, originally for violin and double bass, was written for David Heyes in 2007. Although the title suggests music of specific inspiration, these are merely brief encounters which demand equal opportunities for each player to demonstrate ensemble and technical skills, rather than responding to extra-musical influences.'

There are also two other versions for double bass in solo tuning: one with piano accompaniment (RM445), the other with guitar (RM444). The edition for double bass and violin (RM441)is in orchestral tuning.

David Ellis is one of Britain's senior composers and writes in a confident, accessible and strident idiom which has proved popular with players and audiences alike. His works for double bass have been performed worldwide and offer musical and technical challenges in equal measure.

This set of five pieces makes effective use of both instruments offering much for performers and audiences alike. The modern idiom is tempered by a lyrical and cantabile approach and the composers close attention to details produces music of great quality and distinction. The version for violin and violoncello was made by the composer in 2011.

David Ellis was born in Liverpool in 1933 and studied at the Royal Manchester College of Music from 1953-57. His work as a composer began to be recognised at this time, not only through performances but also from important and prestigious commissions and awards including the Royal Philharmonic Prize, Ricordi Prize, Theodore Holland Award, Royal Manchester Institution Silver Medal and a Gulbenkian Award.

From 1964 onwards David Ellis worked at the BBC and was subsequently appointed Head of Music, BBC North before becoming Artistic Director and Composer-in-Residence of the Northern Chamber Orchestra in 1986. In 1994 he left the NCO to help set up the Orquestra Sinfónica Portuguesa, based in Lisbon, before returning to the UK to concentrate exclusively on composition.

An impressive work list comprises compositions in almost every genre from opera, choral and vocal, to orchestral, concertos, brass band and chamber music.