Wishful
Thinking is a fun piece for String Quartet, although a string orchestra
version is
also available. It is generally rhythmical, influenced by the British
pop tradition, but with wistful melodies that give the piece a certain
classical reference. The briefest mention from the Beatles ‘Yesterday’ is
no more than a fleeting moment of respect, before the typical Johnstone
harmonies continue on their way. All the string players have their moments
of melodic ‘glory’, before the piece comes to a most gentle
resting point at the end. The sub-title ‘Amara, Donostia’ refers
to the district of San Sebastian where the Basque National Orchestra
has its home – the ‘Swinging Strings’ of this orchestra
were the first to promote and record the piece in orchestral form.
