Night and Day
Fanny Davies International Piano Series
Night and Day: A Musical Dialogue
This collection explores the relationship between night and day, past and future, and the rediscovery of overlooked artistic voices. Through the symbolism of light and darkness, it reflects on the revival of under-appreciated 20th-century works, embodying introspection, reflection and the enduring dialogue between tradition and modernity.
Drawing on animal figures often referenced in classical music, each illustration pairs contrasting creatures against opposing backgrounds of light and darkness. These mirrored figures explore duality, inviting the viewer to consider how opposites can reflect, complement and illuminate one another, creating a bridge between past and future.
Enchantment
Ink and watercolour on mixed media paper
The owl, often evoked in nocturnal and symbolic music (Elgar’s Owls, Janequin’s Le Chant des Oiseaux), represents mystical wisdom.
This piece reflects how both owl and melody share an enchanting, otherworldly presence, guiding us toward hidden depths of perception.
Transformation
Ink and watercolour on mixed media paper
The swan, iconic in ballet and orchestral music (Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Saint-Saëns’ The Swan), stands as an enduring symbol of transformation, beauty emerging through change, from awkward beginnings to radiant grace.
Companion
Ink and watercolour on mixed media paper
The dog, a loyal figure in music (Elgar’s Mina, Chopin’s Valse du Petit Chien), reflects companionship and empathy.
Hunting motifs, such as in Mozart’s Horn Concerto No. 1, evoke riders galloping through forests with dogs at their side, suggesting the chase and the outdoors. Like music, the dog is a long-standing partner in comfort, health and adventure.
Transportation
Ink and watercolour on mixed media paper
Available for purchase
The horse, a familiar presence in galloping overtures and programmatic works (Rossini’s William Tell Overture), symbolising motion and freedom.
As in music, this piece recalls the horse’s timeless role as a travel companion across cultures and histories.
Embodiment
Ink and watercolour on mixed media paper
Available for purchase
The lion, regal and commanding (Saint-Saëns, Le Leon from Carnival of the Animals), embodies leadership and strength.
In musicianship, embodiment is the act of inhabiting an instrument’s soul, or perhaps even that of the original composer, allowing the music to speak, almost humanly, and reveal its heart for our introspection.