We’re delighted to have commissioned composer James B. Wilson to write a piece of music exclusively available as a giveaway for this year’s ESTA conference delegates. James joined ABRSM for a panel discussion exploring diversity and inclusion in teaching and learning, and his piece, Draw a Bucket O’Water,  received its world premiere at the ABRSM Concert immediately following the panel session.

Reflecting on the piece, James says: “Draw a Bucket O'Water is an adaptation of a lively Bajan folksong. It has been written specifically to be inclusive and flexible, so it will be playable by as many learner string ensembles as possible. I chose to arrange this folk song because of its irrepressible joyfulness and Caribbean charm.”

We hope you enjoy using this piece in your teaching – please share your ensembles’ performances with ABRSM on our social channels!

About James

James B. Wilson is a storyteller who lives and breathes the here and now. From climate change and social justice, to the messy contradictions and imperfections of everyday life, he is drawn to human stories. ‘I don’t live in a vacuum and neither does my music,’ he explains. ‘Music is an essential part of what it means to be a human being. It is communication, emotion. Living composers tell the stories of our time.’

His music ranges from intimate music for soloists and duets, to immersive electronic pieces, ensemble music, and works for orchestra. His passion for working with the voice is also apparent in his catalogue

James studied, with a scholarship, at the Royal Academy of Music under Gary Carpenter and David Sawer, and also took frequent lessons with Sir Peter Maxwell Davies.


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Last modified: Tuesday, 1 August 2023, 1:57 PM