Yet, at that time it was the railway
scenes that most interested me. In 1966 (thereabouts), the fictional town of
Tannochbrae was represented by the former Scottish station of Uplawmoor, and an
elderly North British Railway J36 locomotive was pressed into service. It is rumoured
that two surviving Caledonian Railway coaches also appeared. These are now safely
preserved at the Scottish Railway Preservation Society site at Bo’ness.
Dr Finlay’s Casebook drama series ran from 1962 until 1971. It starred Bill Simpson as the eponymous character and Andrew Cruikshank as the craggy Dr Cameron. Viewers will not forget the part played by their housekeeper and receptionist Janet, played by Barbara Mullen.
In the liner notes for the Marco Polo retrospective of Duncan’s music, David Ades explains that the composer regarded this Suite as absolute music, with no hint of a programme or literary subtext. Yet, due to the use of the March in the TV series, the piece has become to be regarded as being ‘Scottish.’ The composer insisted that he had England in mind when writing it.
Trevor Duncan’s charming Little Suite has three contrasting movements. The March is lively and energetic, suggesting the busyness of a street or marketplace. The second part is a serene Lullaby that is gentle and soothing. The last movement is a rhythmic Jogtrot that is catchy and playful. Careful listening will reveal melodies from both the March and Lullaby worked into this finale.
The March has been recorded many times, but the entire Suite less often. The premiere recording was made in 1993 on the Marco Polo label (8.223517), The Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra (Bratislava) was conducted by Andrew Penny.
Listen to Trevor Duncan’s complete Little Suite on YouTube, here.
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