Tuesday 04 March 2025
St Mary’s Music School Pupil to Premiere Orchestral Composition
A Nightmare in Argentina" to be premiered by the Glasgow Chamber Orchestra on Sunday, March 9 at 7.30pm
We are thrilled to share that Eva Smeddle, S6 extention and vocal programme pupil at St Mary’s Music School, will have her orchestral work "A Nightmare in Argentina" premiered by the Glasgow Chamber Orchestra on Sunday, March 9 at 7.30pm at St John’s Renfield Church, Glasgow.
Piano Composition
Originally composed for piano at the age of 15, Eva’s piece impressed her tutors so much that they encouraged her to develop it into a full orchestral arrangement. Over six months, she expanded and refined the work, which is now set to be performed by a 45-strong ensemble—a rare and remarkable achievement for a school-age composer. Inspired by tango and Latin American music, "A Nightmare in Argentina" is both atmospheric and technically demanding, something Eva describes as “a bit of a nightmare to play.”
Relection
Reflecting on the experience, Eva said:
"I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity. It’s the sort of thing most people would jump at—to have your music really lifted off the page by an orchestra like this. Being at St Mary’s has made a huge difference. There is music everywhere—you can’t help but absorb it, and it makes you want to play and practice too."
St Mary’s Music School’s Artistic Director and Glasgow Chamber Orchestra Musical Director, Robert Baxter, highlighted the significance of this moment:
"This is very rare, and it’s the first time I remember the Glasgow Chamber Orchestra performing a new piece composed by someone of school age. It reflects very well on Eva and on the school, which is right up there with the best in the UK and abroad."
The concert will feature Beethoven, Mozart, and Eva’s composition, offering a unique and inspiring programme.
We are incredibly proud of Eva’s achievement and encourage families, friends, and supporters to join us for this special evening.
