Holding the Hill is written to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the Imjin River, Korea, 22 - 25 April 1951, specifically the role taken by the Gloucestershire Regiment (Glosters) and in particular soldiers from the Forest of Dean. They were a close group of soldiers; many of whom were on national service, had not heard of Korea and were expecting their posting to be something of a fun adventure. Throughout the music, I have aimed to portray this close sense of comradeship, whilst never leaving behind the horror of what occurred during that time. It is impossible to do musical justice – merely to represent, respect and honour from a personal compositional perspective. I am grateful to the many people who shared with me their knowledge and expertise when I was undergoing research for the composition.
The music is in three movements and is a musical reflection on some of the international and human stories of the battle. The first movement,
Hill 235, represents the role of the Forest of Dean Glosters in action and the aftermath. The second,
Hymn to the Cross is inspired by the famous Carne Cross, carved by Colonel Carne whilst imprisoned, also a fluke accident in battle with a watch which was left damaged and engraved with the sign of the cross. The third,
Legacy, reflects on the soldiers’ homecoming and the legacy left by the battle.
Narration is also incorporated; a poem especially written by my friend and colleague Jennifer Henderson, and by Private David Gardiner 22345661 [1930-2010], who was one of the Forest of Dean Glosters and fought in action.
Commissioned by the Forest Musical Landscape a part of the Foresters’ Forest Landscape partnership project and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Feedback from premiere, Royal Forest of Dean Orchestra, conductor Fiona Crawley, St Paul’s Church, Parkend, 23 October 2021.
The highlight of course being 'Holding the Hill' which was so atmospheric with music coming from all parts of the church - fantastic... [audience]
Liz’s Holding the Hill had me in tears from the very beginning and I know I wasn’t the only one. It was the perfect way to remember the veterans. [audience]
a lovely emotive piece [orchestra]
Yesterday afternoon was so lovely - the music was beautiful particularly the new composition [audience]
What a fab performance...I really enjoyed it ....the new composition was brilliant...xx wonderful stuff [audience]
Brilliant [audience]
your music was such a pleasure to play. A beautiful piece. [orchestra]
It was such a privilege to bring your music to life [orchestra]
I think your piece went down especially well with the audience. It was the first time I had heard it with all the instruments present, and with players distributed around the church, it sounded great. [orchestra]
The piece Holding the Hill by Liz Lane was superb and utilised the space of the church with spectacular effect. [audience]
I really enjoyed your symphony and found it very moving. Well done you, it is a very fitting musical tribute. [audience]
….very emotive, yet approachable and appropriate to the occasion [audience]
Your composition is beautiful. So emotive and a wonderful portrayal of the battle. [audience]
