John Jeffreys

Toby's Dreams

These eight short piano pieces, Toby's Dreams and Elegy constitute diversions, rather than variations, on the brief triplet phrase, evoking the slumbering contentment of the dog Toby whose devotion to handicapped children was tragically cut short as, shepherding their outgoings, he was struck by a car and killed.
'After dog Toby's master was killed in a road accident he searched the entire village looking for him. On many a winter's night he would call at our house and be fed before lying down in front of the open fire to sleep, perchance to dream! Among the dreams would come the occasional muffled barks (see No.2). His summer visits seemed to bring him some cheer, as betrayed by a curious 'step-lollop' (see No.6). The cold silence of the winter stars (No.7) was finally replaced by the mutual joy and affection he later shared with the children of the local Dr. Barnardo's home.' John Jeffreys
Total duration about 17 minutes