“Tom can make the most beautiful pianissimos ranging all the way to the most glorious loud sound, unfolding wonder and lit from the inside of the music at the same time. His playing has unleashed both my piano playing and my compositional explorations, so moving have I found his performances. He continues to inspire me in the deepest way.”

Eleanor Alberga on the playing of Thomas Bowes

Violinist Thomas Bowes has for many years been closely associated with the music of Eleanor Alberga OBE, performing her works with an understanding and immediacy few can match. Their partnership - personal, creative and deeply musical - has resulted in performances that combine technical brilliance with deep insight into the composer’s artistic world.

‘Since first hearing some of Eleanor’s music in the late 1980’s I’ve been utterly convinced that hers is a vitally important voice. The depth and humanity that I always hear in her soundworld has given me a sense of mission in ensuring its widest possible hearing. Playing her music and playing a part in its wider acceptance and enjoyment has been a source of huge pride and happiness for me.’

About Eleanor Alberga

Eleanor Alberga OBE is one of Britain’s most distinctive contemporary composers. Her work spans orchestral, chamber, operatic and vocal music, all characterised by brilliant craft, rhythmic vitality, vivid colour and, above all, an emotional directness that speaks strongly to audiences.

The Musical Collaboration

Tom and Eleanor’s musical life together has unfolded over several decades. What began as a partnership between violinist and pianist developed into a creative dialogue that continues to enrich both their individual and shared artistic journeys.

A shared musical voice

Eleanor’s writing for the violin reflects her deep understanding of Tom’s sound and musical temperament. She writes to illuminate his strengths: a focused, expressive tone; clarity of phrasing; and an instinctive sense of structure and colour. The music feels tailor-made because it is.

Double Exposure

Through their duo Double Exposure, Tom and Eleanor have toured internationally, presenting programmes that place contemporary works alongside classic repertoire. These performances helped to shape a shared artistic language; one grounded in communication, boldness, and curiosity.

Composer-performer dialogue

When Eleanor composes for the violin, Tom is often part of the process: trying passages, exploring ideas, affirming shapes and solutions. This dialogue - sometimes analytical, sometimes intuitive - means Tom’s performances are informed by the music’s inner life, not merely the notes on the page.

A shared artistic environment

The creative conversation continues in daily life; discussions about form, gesture, drama and colour. This ongoing exchange gives Tom’s performances an unusual authenticity and sense of emotional truth.