'The Sea Journey' premieres as official anthem for Aberdeen's Tall Ships festival

The official anthem for this summer’s Tall Ships festival in Aberdeen has premiered.

Local primary school pupils sang “The Sea Journey” to an audience of 150 people – including composer Clara-Jane Maunder, who wrote the piece for Aberdeen City Council Music Service.

The composition features references to several familiar landmarks in the Granite City.

Ms Maunder told STV News: “It has been a real delight to work on this commission for Aberdeen City Music service over the past couple of months.

“It has been even more wonderful to hear it performed in such a beautiful and enthusiastic way by pupils from Abbotswell Primary School.”

“I benefitted hugely from the music service’s instrumental tuition, ensembles and orchestras as a young person, so this has been an absolute full-circle moment.

“It has been truly wonderful to have the opportunity to write for the next generation of young creatives, inspired by the city I grew up in.”

“A Sea Journey” follows a sailor’s journey as they return to Aberdeen after a long time at sea.

Councillor Martin Greig, chair of the Tall Ships Organising Committee, said: ““The pupils gave a wonderful performance of Clara-Jane’s stirring composition, which will be a real symbol of the Tall Ships and our great maritime city.

“The song will be a splendid long-lasting legacy of this year’s Tall Ships experience.”

The music will become one of the main themes of the festival, which is expected to attract about 50 vessels and almost half a million visitors to the city.