John Casken

The British composer John Casken (b1949) has established himself as one of the most distinctive composers of his generation. His works range across every genre and the titles reveal that he can be inspired both by literature and by legend as well as landscape and the visual arts. He lives in Wooler in North Northumberland where the landscape, its changing colours, huge skies, evidence of Early Christianity, and the poetry of this part of England have influenced his works in different ways. They have helped to create a strong sense of place, forming a thread throughout his music, and in his own paintings.

John's recent research into the work of the important French sculptor Camille Claudel has convinced him that her life and work are an interesting subject for a new chamber opera for three singers – a mezzo-soprano (Camille), baritone (Rodin), and tenor (Paul Claudel). The instrumental ensemble will be small - flute, viola, horn, harp, and double bass. The opera will embrace a number of key issues: youth and inspiration, the struggles of women, passion and disillusion, genius and madness, cruelty and hypocrisy.