As Easy as Lying (11.35) was composed in 2001 while Jonathan was Music Director of the National Theatre’s production of Hamlet with Simon Russell Beale. It was composed for the musicians working on the production and uniquely brings together piano, viola and oboe. It was first performed at the Guthrie Theater Minneapolis in May 2001.
Hamlet: Will you play upon this pipe?
Guildenstern: My lord, I cannot.
Hamlet: I pray you.
Guildenstern: Believe me, I cannot.
Hamlet: I do beseech you.
Guildenstern: I know no touch of it my lord.
Hamlet: It is as easy as lying.
Belinda Sykes: oboe
Rebecca Cauthery: viola
Jonathan Cooper: piano
Recorded at Blaze Music Studios, London, July 2001 The score and parts of As Easy as Lying are available directly from Jonathan Cooper. A cd is also available to those wishing to hear the work for programming purposes. Please contact Jonathan Cooper by email.
