By The Brook

(c)2019 Carolyn Miller

This piece of music was inspired by the little creek at Binbrook (our country property). In my investigations I discovered that “Binbrook” actually means “a little stream of refreshing water” and that is exactly how one feels after spending some time at the property… refreshed within their soul!

This creek (or brook) that borders the end of the property, originates from a mountain spring that has continued to flow even in the driest of seasons, even if it was only a trickle… that is, until the recent drought in Jan/Feb of 2020. The water stopped running and collected in some small pools for just a couple of weeks and just as the local farmers began to panic, it began to fill as the water seeped up through the ground and it was flowing again before the first rains fell.

The ground surrounding the creek is green and several large gum trees are beside it. There is a gentle lapping sound as the water ripples over the rocks and flows around a bend with no force or determination but just a movement onward.

This image reminded me of Psalm 1 where one who follows God’s ways is likened to a flourishing tree standing firm, deeply rooted beside the brook. It is constantly tapping into the life giving water.

When I play this music, I imagine meeting Jesus by this bubbling brook and spending time in His presence as He refreshes me with His living water.

Especially now, in this season of uncertainty and fear that 2020 has brought with it, I long to, even more, be that big flourishing tree that is deeply rooted in God’s love  and bearing fruit in every season… never dry, never fainting, ever blessed and ever prosperous. (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

About the score… find a sample of the score below. If you are a pianist who is about Grade 4 then I think you would be able to play this. It is not technically difficult but requires mature musicianship for the rubato and to play expressively with a depth of emotion and musicality. If you wish to obtain a full copy of the piano score then please contact me and I can send you a PDF. There is no cost involved… I just like to know where the scores are going. Thanks