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David Ray was a Professor of Neurotoxicology at the University of Nottingham Medical School and a member of the Choir of St Peter's Church, Nottingham. He died on Remembrance Sunday 2010 after a long and courageous fight with lung cancer. Following his funeral, the idea emerged of commissioning a piece of choral music in his memory. In a unique and fruitful collaboration between the Medical School and St Peter's, and following discussions led by David's widow, the Reverend Joanna Ray, Rob Edlin-White and Peter Siepmann of St Peter's Choir, and Dr Lopa Leach of the university's School of Biomedical Sciences, we are delighted to announce that the British composer Howard Skempton has now been commissioned to write a piece of choral music in memory of David. Howard Skempton is a well-known composer of both choral and instrumental works. His style is accessible, appealing and effective, often characterized by a concentration on the quality of sound and an economy of compositional means, and with a strong emphasis on melody. BBC Music Magazine has said:

“Howard's music is elegant, British, civilised, with a touch of anarchy. I see him as a gentleman in a bowler hat, a briefcase - and sandals.”

It is intended that the first performance will be given by The Choir of St Peter's in the University Medical School on Remembrance Sunday 2012.

The Lord hath created medicines out of the earth; and he that is wise will not abhor them. And he hath given men skill, that he might be honoured in his marvellous works. My son, in thy sickness be not negligent: but pray unto the Lord, and he will make thee whole. Leave off from sin, and order thine hands aright, and cleanse thy heart from all wickedness. Then give place to the physician, for the Lord hath created him: let him not go from thee, for thou hast need of him.

We hope that these words from Ecclesiasticus 38 will form the basis of the text of the piece, possibly interspersed with words from two of David's scientific inspirations, the Spanish neuroscientist Cajal (who won the Nobel Prize in 1906) and the 15th century physician and polymath, Paracelsus. There are very few pieces of sacred choral music about medicine and physicians, so we hope that this exciting new work may find a niche wider than our commission.

Donations from members of the congregation towards the cost of this project (which totals £3000) would be very gratefully received. Please enclose any donations in one of the parish Gift Aid envelopes, with the front panel completed, and clearly marked 'David Ray Music'.

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