BRITISH Issue no.Bands 5527 – 20 September 2008 the leading internationalman brass magazine

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A Cutt above the rest Fantastic Foden’s victory provides fourth accolade for conductor

BB 1.indd 1 17-09-2008 16:37:50 BRITISH

BRITISH BandsThe leading internationalman brass magazine Bandsthe leading internationalman brass magazine BRITISH Issue no.Bands 5527 – 20 September 2008 the leading internationalman brass magazine Price £1.25 THE LEADING CIRCULATING MAGAZINE IN THE WORLDWIDE A Cutt above the rest BRASS MARKET Fantastic Foden’s victory provides fourth accolade for conductor BRITISH Issue no.Bands 5525 – 6 September 2008 the leading internationalman brass magazine Issue no. 5524 – 30 August 2008 Issue no. 5523 – 23 August 2008

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Players from Whitburn Band celebrate victory at the Land O’ Burns Contest in Troon last weekend. For Whitburn, it was a fi fth successive victory in a sequence that has seen the band lift a total of £11,000 in prize money at the event since 2004. Turn to page 3 for the full story.

Secret millionaire provides Picture: Ritter Gareth Over 200 delegates and staff of the International Summer School, pictured above at Swansea University. The course, led by Robert and rosy future for Easington Nicholas Childs, was an outstanding success, and BB’s Kenneth Crookston was there to see what it was all about. Turn to pages 8&9 for the full story.

Easington Colliery Band, which recently suff ered a devastating tears, and one or two of the players have said that it’s the fi rst loss of the sponsorship that it had enjoyed from the Rail, time I’ve been silent in years!” Maritime and Transport Union, has received a massive boost Speaking to BB, Brighouse-based Carl Hopkins commented: to its fortunes with an appearance on the Channel 4 television “Brass bands are very important to the former mining and Parliamentary support programme, The Secret Millionaire. textile communities, and Easington Colliery Band doesn’t only The programme, which was aired on Tuesday (26th), was provide a link to the past, but is also a fantastic ambassador, originally presented to the band as a documentary on the taking a very positive message wherever it performs Scott Meikle village’s former colliery, with its true purpose being kept around the country. The eff ort that everyone involved in grows for brass bands band and the whole experience has made us aware that we under cover. The band’s Secretary, Scott Meikle, takes up the the organisation puts in, while also paying for the whole need to start making the money work for us. As a result, we story: “I had a phone call from the production company, RDF, thing themselves and holding down jobs of their own, is The recently established All Parliamentary Group on Brass Bands, formed last month in the House of Commons, is gaining in size, with more have two CDs in the pipeline – Colliery Favourites and The Secret in February, asking if the band would like to be involved in a remarkable. I hope that my contribution will help the band politicians and dignitaries pledging their support. – as well as a limited edition tie and our own casual wear, so programme about the village of Easington Colliery,” said Scott, see its centenary in fi ve years time, but it would be great if the After a long and detailed debate in the Commons last month, which tackled the thorny issue of more legitimate Government funding for bands, we are making our money work for us. However, it’s not just adding, “When Carl Hopkins, the secret millionaire, arrived, programme will also encourage a business in the North East support now totals 29 members from the House of Commons and eight members from the House of Lords. about our band. The programme is very respectful of banding we thought he was from the production company itself and to align itself with the band.” in general and provides a good opportunity to help other The full list of members is: Jeff Ennis (Chair), David Heath and Lord Jones (Vice-Chairs), Lord Foster (Secretary), Peter Atkinson, Kevin Barron, John I was reluctant to go into too much detail about our fi nances Easington Colliery Band was formed in 1913 and has been one bands across the UK to put their message out in their own Battle, Richard Benyon, Colin Burgon, Ronald Campbell, Michael Clapham, David Crausby, Philip Davies, David Drew, Bill Etherington, Michael with him. As it happened, we had just lost our sponsorship, of the stalwarts of north-east banding ever since, appearing communities. We all need to start putting ourselves forward J. Foster, Julia Goldsworthy, Lindsay Hoyle, Mark Hunter, Eric Illsley, Michael Jack, Denis MacShane, Denis Murphy, Gwen Prosser, Laurance we were down to our last £300 and it was becoming clear regularly at the National Finals in Harrogate and London. and stop becoming the dying breed that we appear to be.” Robertson, Dan Rogerson, Terry Rooney, Marsha Singh, David Taylor, Neil Turner, George Young, Lord Bilston, Lord Brookman, Lord Davis of Coity, after the ‘Area’ contest that we were on the verge of closure. As a result of its appearance on national television, in the Baroness Golding, Lord Hoyle and Lord Lipsey. They came to fi lm the band on the day that Carl was leaving, Easington Colliery’s next performance will be in Diss, Norfolk, past week, local radio and newspapers have given the band and you could have knocked me over with a feather when next weekend and it will follow this up with appearances One of the driving forces behind gaining Government backing for bands has been the British Federation of Brass Bands’ Development Offi cer, extensive coverage, lifting its profi le higher than ever. he revealed his true identity and handed me a cheque for at the Pontin’s Contest in October and the Scottish Open in Philip Watson. Commenting on the success of the group so far, Philip Watson told BB: “I hope the Parliamentary Group will continue to grow at a £10,000. Like others in the band, I couldn’t hold back the Scott Meikle continued: “This is a tremendous boost for the November. good rate. It started with an initial membership of 20 and is now over 30. I think it will be a great lobbying tool for the brass band sector and the The new wizard from Oz more members it has, the more useful it will be to bands.” Price £1.25 In a plea to gain the support of bands Philip Watson said: “I think bands should be encouraged to contact their local MP. If he or she appears on the membership list above, then contact them to congratulate them. If their name is not currently on the list, then persuade them to become a The man from ‘down-under’ driving Leyland back to the top member.”

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BB 2-3.indd 2 17-09-2008 16:55:22 NEWS NEWS Registration issue clouds ‘Open’ outcome Heyl triumphant at Exmouth

Events surrounding last weekend’s British Open Championship in Birmingham have brought Heyl Band siezed the top spot at the ninth Exmouth Brass Band Festival, organised by the confusion to player registration within the UK, following reports that a player of Scottish Co-op South West Brass Band Association (SWBBA), which took place on 6 September at the Exmouth Band performed at the contest without valid documentation. Pavilion. Percussionist, Philip Trudgeon, who was previously a signed member of Camborne Town A large audience enjoyed the programmes of 15 bands, and adjudicator, Denis Wilby, openly Band, became the subject of a dispute between Scottish Co-op and the Scottish Brass Band admitted his surprise at the maximum entry of bands, taking into account the high cost of travel Association (SBBA), when the Association’s Registrar informed the band that the player would with no prize money being off ered. “He congratulated all the bands and their musical directors be unable to compete in Birmingham because the 28-day deadline, which is applied to all but for excellent and enthusiastic playing, together with well thought-out programmes,” reported brand new player registrations in Scotland, had not yet passed, despite no such rule applying Brian Elliott, the SWBBA Secretary. to English and Welsh bands taking part in the event. The band subsequently appealed to the Brian Elliott further commented: “Considering the atrocious weather prior to the Festival, it was Contest Controller and was given his permission to include Philip Trudgeon in its line-up, even amazing that the Pavilion Gardens were bathed in sunshine during the morning and the fringe although no such dispensation was passed by the SBBA. concerts went ahead with the bands playing to an appreciative audience enjoying the few hours A statement to BB from the SBBA’s President, George Burt, reads: ‘The Registrar of the Scottish of warmth on their backs. Unfortunately, this joyful scene did not last, as the heavens opened Brass Band Association was asked to register a player for one of the Scottish bands participating just after lunch and the concert programme had to be abandoned. However, the exemplary high in the British Open. The player had a cancelled registration and, under current SBBA registration quality of playing, deportment, presentation and friendliness of the bands must be applauded rules, a new registration is not eff ected until 28 days from the date of the cancellation of the and is a credit to the brass band movement.” previous registration. In accordance with current SBBA registration rules, the player was The results were: registered with the band with an eff ective date 28 days after cancellation of the previous 1. Heyl Town (D. Johnston); 2. Soundhouse Brass (G. Pumford); 3. Pendennis Brass Falmouth registration (in this case, an eff ective date of 6 October 2008), and the registration card was (S. Thomas); 4. St. Breward Silver (G. Lannie); 5. Lympstone South West Telecom (C. Fleming); stamped accordingly.’ 6. Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (P. Slator); 7. Tiverton Town (G. Taylor); 8. Sidmouth Town (A. The statement continues: ‘The British Open Contest Controller informed the SBBA Registrar that, Harvey); 9. South Molton Town (A. Edwards); 10. Uttoxeter Town Brass (M. Pope); 11. Camelford under the Registry (BBBR) and British Open rules, they had no objections to Town (A. Brown); 12. Bideford Town (G. Taylor); 13. Torrington Silver (T. Hutchings); 14. Brixham the band using the player in question. The SBBA Registrar informed the British Open Contest Town (M. Stevenson); 15. Appledore Silver (J. Croker). Controller that the player would not be registered with the band until 6 October, and the list of Most Entertaining Band: Heyl Town registered players sent by the SBBA to the BBBR did not contain this player’s name. The other Best Soloist: Fran Bowman, fl ugel, Lympstone South West Telecom Scottish bands participating were informed about the situation.’ Best Percussion Section: Pendennis Brass Falmouth When later asked if SBBA had any plans to align its rules regarding transfers with the British Best Section: Soundhouse Brass and Welsh registries, George Burt replied: “SBBA is constantly reviewing its rules for the benefi t Adjudicator: Denis Wilby. of member bands, but current Scottish Registry rules will be applied in the case of the Scottish bands attending the forthcoming National Finals in Harrogate and London.” BRASS IN CONCERT CHAMPIONSHIP When questioned by BB, Contest Controller, Frank Hodges, stated: “We received an appeal EgZhZcihVdcZ"YVn from a competing band wishing to use a player signed within the 28-day rule that exists within its own Registry Rules. However, the interpretation of the rule in this case lies with the FOCUS ON BRASS AND PERCUSSION British Brass Band Registry and its Registrar, and any advice from him will be upheld by this competition. It was subsequently agreed that the player would be allowed to play so that the Eg^cX^eVahedchdgÄH]VlIgjhi 6ahdhedchdgZYWnNdg`7gVhh!NVbV]VVcY band would be able to compete on equal terms with English and Welsh bands. The competing B^X]VZaGVi]IgdbWdcZh band delegates were asked at the draw if there were any objections to the player taking the I=:H6<:<6I:H=:69 stage without a valid registration card and there were none.” HVijgYVn&*CdkZbWZg'%%- At the centre of this dispute is Rule 3 of the British Open Championship Rules, which states: ‘All ;ZVijg^c\WgVhhhiVgh/G^X]VgYBVgh]VaaXdgcZih! H]ZdcVL]^iZ]dgch!7gZii7V`ZgigdbWdcZh! Contests will run under the Rules of the British Brass Band Registry in their most current form, 9Zg^X`@VcZZje]dc^jbhVcYWVg^idcZh! or the appropriate Accredited Registry, according to the nationality of the competing band.’ ?dZ8dd`WVhhZhVcY H^bdcZGZWZaadeZgXjhh^dc When asked if this rule had been correctly applied in the case of a Scottish band competing at the British Open under the rules of its own registry, Frank Hodges replied: “There is a diff erence FREE ENTRANCE TO ALL WORKSHOPS! HeZX^Vaij^i^dcVggVc\ZbZcih[dgZaZbZciVgneaVnZgh between the British and Scottish registry rules, so it is really a matter of interpretation over the word, ‘accredited’, as far as I am concerned.” .#(%Vb"&'#(%eb/7gVhhVcYEZgXjhh^dcldg`h]deh A spokesman for Scottish Co-op Band declined to comment on the grounds that a statement &'#(%"&#&*eb/AjcX] &#&*ebid'#%%eb/;jaaWVcYgZ]ZVghVa issued now may aff ect any future proceedings, but BB has been informed by Rothwell '#&*eb"'#)*eb/8dcXdjghZXdcXZgiWni]Zldg`h]deWVcY Temperance Band, which dropped out of the British Open into the Grand Shield following its last place in the contest, that it has lodged an offi cial complaint to the contest organisers over IdWdd`VeaVXZ!8DBEA:I:AN;G::!eaZVhZXdciVXi/

the matter. 6aVc=deZ/ The issue will be considered by the SBBA’s Executive Committee at its next scheduled meeting IZaZe]dcZ/%&.&)&+&%%- BdW^aZ/%,,+*+*+,'. on 5 October. :"bV^a/V]deZ#WgVhh5i^hXVa^#Xd#j`

C^XdaV7aVcY/ IZaZe]dcZ/%&)'(,&'*)) :"bV^a/^c[d5Wg^i^h]WVcYhbVc#Xdb

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 3

BB 2-3.indd 3 17-09-2008 16:55:27 Youth Brass Band Entertainment Festival NATIONAL YOUTH of Great Britain 2009 BRASS BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS at the Empress Ballroom OF GREAT BRITAIN Blackpool Winter Gardens Sunday 5 April 2009 Royal Northern College of Music Sunday 1 February 2009 Manchester

Over £2,700 in prize money Managed by B.F.B.B. Contests Ltd. Under the auspices of the British Federation of Brass Bands Festival controller Gary Walczak For more information contact 5 Burwell Close Championship Administrator, at the BFBB office: Unit 12, Maple Estate, Lower Healey Stocks Lane, Barnsley. Tel: 01226 771015 Rochdale E-mail: [email protected] OL12 6DQ www.bfbb.co.uk E-mail: [email protected] Registered charity no.: 1065181

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BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 4

BB 4-5.indd 4 17-09-2008 16:53:43 NEWS NEWS

Eccles Borough Band members brave the weather as they await the result photo: Nikki Stirzaker photo: Rainford on top at St. Helens Brass invited Neil Samuel was the delighted conductor who led Rainford Band to victory at the recent St. Helens March and Hymn Tune Contest, which took place in the Lancashire town a fortnight ago. Beating off 13 other bands, Rainford won both the march and to Rothwell hymn tune prize to be crowned overall winner. The event was adjudicated by Geoffrey Whitham and Alan Lawton, and St. Helen’s attracted a large audience, which lapped up Festival the atmosphere of the event, consolidating the contest’s place in the town’s calendar. The results were: Brass musicians are being invited to take their places at March the 2009 Rothwell Competitive Music Festival, which will 1. Rainford; 2. Bactiguard Wire Brass; 3. Blackburn & Darwen; 4. Point of Ayr; 5. Old Hall; 6. Greenalls. take place from 26 to 28 March. Hymn Tune Soloists of all ages, small ensembles and full bands are 1. Rainford; 2. Bactiguard Wire Brass; 3. Blackburn & Darwen; 4. Point of Ayr; 5. Old Hall; 6. Greenalls. being encouraged to attend the traditional-style festival, to create a great performance platform for players from beginner to advanced levels. I can't praise this book highly enough that why I'm recommending it Anyone interested should contact Margaret Wilks on to all my students and of course I'm using it myself. Steven Mead 01132 932 960. BASICS PLUS CYBB reaches Studies for Brass Instruments out to the world TREBLE CLEF (T.C.) BASS CLEF (B.C.) Cornwall Youth Brass Band (CYBB) is reaching out to version version band enthusiasts across the world with a broadcast on Studies for 1 or 2 Studies for 1 or 2 the popular BrassCast show, beamed weekly via podcast /  brass instruments (or other  from the USA. Said Phillip Hunt, Secretary of the CYBB: brass instruments) “From next weekend, the weekly podcast will feature music from the Easter Course Concert by Cornwall Youth Brass Band, as well as some waffle by the Secretary!” The RUNDEL Music Publications show can be accessed at ORDER (UK) telephone 01827-711964 · online www..net www.brasscast.com/2006default.htm ORDER (Int.) telephone 0049-8395-94260 · online www.basicsplus.info

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 5

BB 4-5.indd 5 17-09-2008 16:53:46 BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 6

BB 6-7.indd 6 17-09-2008 17:27:01 PRODUCT NEWS Become silent and slick with Yamaha! Yamaha will be present in Harrogate next weekend for the The Personal Studio setting can be used as an addition to Lower Section National Finals, and visitors to the trade a player’s practise routine, and can convert the sound to exhibition will be able to take a closer look at two of its brass mimic the acoustics of a larger room. An Aux-In port provides add-ons: the Silent Brass system and its valve oil. the facility to practise orchestral or band music alongside Ian Frankland is Yahama’s Marketing and Promotion a recording. The Personal Studio is described by Yamaha as Controller, and he was keen to talk to BB about these being easy to use and is small enough to fit in a shirt pocket products. “Silent Brass gives you the flexibility you need to while offering a choice of clean or echo-enhanced sound. practise anywhere, at any time,” he commented, adding “This Yamaha asserts that the Silent Brass provides even and innovative system offers players the ability to practise in consistent intonation, and when compared with conventional almost any environment without disturbing others and is the mutes, performs closely with that of open playing, with the ‘must have’ accessory for any brass player.” aim of providing more productive practise time. With hundreds of brass-playing students arriving at Why not give Yamaha Silent Brass a whirl at Harrogate? universities, colleges and conservatoires, maybe this is the perfect solution for practise in their halls of residence, Do you desire fast and reliable valves? - Yamaha may just have without annoying new flatmates! It’s also suitable for touring the product for you! musicians staying in hotel rooms, those living in flats, or After years of research and development, Yamaha has now players who are a bit timid about having others hear their launched its Ultimate range of valve oils, which attempts practice regime! Ian Frankland explained further: “The Silent to cater for all brass players’ requirements. The new oils Brass system, unlike other practise mutes, reproduces the real are synthetic, which allows for more consistent stability in sound of the instrument through a pickup microphone built different temperatures and improved touch. Ian Frankland into the mute. The natural sound can then be heard by the elaborated: “The oils’ corrosion inhibiter adds life to player through earphones, while others hear only a whisper. your instrument, prolonging the valves’ lives for a more This prevents overblowing and allows you to play loud or soft, dependable and long-lasting instrument.” high or low, with your pitch remaining true and centred.” The Light valve oil is manufactured for instruments with very precise valve tolerances and is compatible with Yamaha’s professional models like the Z Series, the Xeno series, and Xeno Artist.

Yamaha’s Regular oil is an ‘all-rounder’ for use in any piston valves and, according to Ian Frankland, provides a light, quick touch, with smooth, long-lasting action.

The thickest of all Yamaha valve oils is the Vintage type, which is designed to produce a smooth and long-lasting action on older models or instruments with larger valves, such as and .

Ian Frankland concluded: “The three different grades of viscosity are designed to suit all brass instruments, whether big or small, old or new. As a result, Yamaha has been able to produce state-of-the-art valve oils that out-perform many other brands. With considerably less evaporation and a lighter and quicker piston action, our new range of valve oils provides brass players with a reliable product for all their playing needs. To complement the new range, there is also a new Rotor Oil, which, like the valve oil, is now synthetic, featuring the same powerful corrosion inhibitor which will massively increase the lifespan of instruments.” For more information on Yamaha brass accessories and maintenance materials, please call 01908 369225 or visit its exhibition at the Harrogate International Centre.

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 7

BB 6-7.indd 7 17-09-2008 17:27:05 2008 BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Foden’s Richardson snatches ‘Open’ Report by Kenneth Crookston and Rodney Newton

Following a summer of gloomy, wet weather, the sun shone down upon the 156th British Open Championship last Saturday (13th) at Symphony Hall, Birmingham, particularly on Foden’s Richardson Band, after it and its conductor, Garry Cutt, lifted the trophy following a keenly-fought contest. Edward Gregson’s Rococo Variations proved a formidable challenge with so many pitfalls (and so many bands and conductors falling headlong into them). Professor Gregson knows exactly how to test a band, while still producing a piece of real music in which the difficulties arise from the content. Everything in this piece is playable by a band of Championship Section level and there is nothing that is difficult just for its own sake, so, in a contest situation, one is left with a question of musicality and fidelity to the markings in the score. Never has Harry Mortimer’s recipe for contest success (“play every note in the right place at the right time”) proved as true as it did last Saturday. Having drawn a fairly comfortable number ten, Foden’s delivered a well-shaped opening followed by a very clean Toccata. The Siciliana was distinguished by the impeccable playing of Mark Wilkinson (principal ) and Glyn Williams (solo euphonium), the latter garnering the Best Soloist award, while the ensuing Waltz had a nice lilt, with the scurrying quaver triplets under perfect control. The Moto Perpetuo was full of energy, yet kept under tight control, while the emotional heart of the piece, the Lament, similarly displayed rigorous control, secure solo playing from Mark Wilkinson, The winning conductor of the 2008 British Open, Garry Cutt photos: John Stirzaker photos: Helen Williams (flugel), Lesley Howie (solo ) and Leslie Neish (Eb bass) in the plangent phrases of the central passage, the band’s superb bass section outdid itself in the opening along the way and some questionable tuning took the shine and power coupled with nobility and accurate unison playing passacaglia theme of the Lament, with secure solos from off the performance. A swift Fugal Scherzo with an exciting in the great fortissimo statement which followed (how very Roger Webster, Andrew Holmes (flugel) and Arfon Owen (solo accellerando led into the final strait and a decisive conclusion. moving this passage is in performance!). The corkscrew horn), following the grief-stricken central climax. Although Under the direction of Selmer Simonson, Kirkintilloch made chromaticisms of the final Fugal Scherzo held no terrors for the Fugal Scherzo appeared to be taken a faster tempo than enough of a favourable impression on the adjudicators to the band and the build to the final peroration was deeply marked, the lines were clear and well-balanced, leading to a secure fifth place from a late number 15 draw, thus banishing impressive. For Foden’s, the announcement of the band’s convincing ending. any fears that it may have had about losing its ‘Open’ place second ‘Open’ win in four years (and Garry Cutt’s fourth in Cory Band, defending its title, followed immediately after in the light of last year’s poor result. After a rather choppy total) brought a poignant end to a difficult period, with Foden’s and provided the opportunity to compare these two opening and a few moments of unease in the Toccata, the the conductor’s brother having died prematurely only the great bands in an exciting head-to-head. As in his winning band settled, with the Waltz benefitting from a gentle lilt and day before the contest. Speaking to BB, an understandably performance last year, Dr. Robert Childs strictly observed the Lament from secure soloists. A little discomfort elsewhere emotional Garry Cutt commented: “I am obviously delighted the markings of tempo and dynamics, while allowing Cory probably cost the band valuable points, but the contention with the band’s response today. The players did everything I freedom of expression, exemplified in the secure, well-shaped was brave and bold, featuring fine contributions from Steve asked of them and they have been rewarded with probably opening and a light-footed opening of the Toccata with the Stewart (soprano) and David Prentice (solo cornet). the biggest prize in banding.” dynamics exactly as marked (Cory was one of the few bands Friday 13th is supposed to be an unlucky day, but for Black Despite an early number six draw, Grimethorpe Colliery to do this, most others opting for the safety of mezzo-forte). Dyke, Saturday 13th was no better. Queensbury’s finest certainly proved itself to be a tough act to beat and there The Waltz had an effervescent, carefree feeling about it, with drew the number one slot and the players seemed a little was little to criticise. Slight unease in the opening horn clearly-defined triplets, while theLament was finely balanced, disconsolate as they trooped onto the stage to a warm, phrase did not bode too well, but that was one of few with very secure solo entries. The Fugal Scherzo built to an sympathetic reception from the audience. Following the noticeable blemishes on an otherwise first-rate reading. impressive conclusion that left many in the hall expecting the National Anthem, the band, under Dr. Nicholas Childs, gave a Alan Withington directed the band with consummate skill. A title to fall once again to the band from the Rhondda Valley. near-faultless first public performance of the test-piece that very precise Toccata gave way to a gently-swaying Siciliana, However, it was not to be and Cory had to accept third place. was, perhaps, just lacking in character and colour. The solo full of Mediterranean sunshine, with exceptionally fine, In fourth place, Leyland Band, performing in its first contributions were of the very high standard expected from lyrical playing from principal cornet, Roger Webster, and ‘Open’ since 2003 under the charismatic Jason Katsikaris, Black Dyke, though, and there was also some very impressive solo euphonium, Michael Dodd. This variation was further certainly caught the adjudicators’ ears with a well-shaped playing from Paul Duffy, which suggests that enhanced by a top-notch soprano contribution from Kevin reading, full of detail. Playing from an uncomfortably early a very bright future lies in store for this outstanding young Crockford, which gained him the Best Soprano prize. Very number four draw, the band nevertheless delivered a secure player. However, the early draw took its toll and ‘Dyke’ just precise playing characterised the Moto Perpetuo, while opening and an accurate Toccata, although a few accidents edged into the ‘frame’ in sixth place, although, it must be

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 8

BB 8-9-10-11.indd 8 17-09-2008 17:31:19 2008 BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP n’ crown in Symphony Hall thriller

said, that there were plenty present in the audience who adapted’ and the eighth placing it received was possibly on would have placed the band higher, and some in the band the generous side. whose enthusiastic celebrations at the end of the performance Hepworth (Cookson Homes) closed the contest from suggested that expectations remained very high. a number 17 draw and gave a very good account of itself In seventh place, Carlton Main Frickley Colliery, under under Ian Porthouse. A steady opening gave way to a secure the direction of Russell Gray, impressed with its refined Toccata, although, everything seemed a little on the loud sound (as it had at the ‘Area’ contest earlier this year). Playing side for the markings and some of the soloists sounded a from a number 12 draw, the band delivered a well-shaped touch uncomfortable. The Siciliana sounded a little loose in opening (with fine soprano playing from Gary Bates) and a ensemble and some poor tuning spoiled the transition into secure Toccata (although everything sounded a little loud), the Moto Perpetuo. Sadly, tuning problems continued to followed by a clear, steady Waltz and an accurate, head- dog the band throughout its contention, which was a pity, driven Moto Perpetuo. Kirsty Abbotts impressed with her because there was much to like in Ian Porthouse’s thoughtful cornet solos in the Lament, as did the other soloists, although interpretation. a little untidiness and in clearing the cut-off at the end of Whitburn, under Steven Mead, delivered a sometimes the big climax just spoiled the picture. Some lack of clarity impressive contention from a number nine draw, with a well- seemed to fog the fugue and the bass drum player was rather paced opening, a precise Toccata, a gently-flowingSiciliana enthusiastic (the entry around rehearsal figure 43 is marked ff (as the score prescribes), a swaying Waltz (with triplets firmly not ffff !), but the ‘home run’ was satisfying and secure. under control) and plenty of energy in the Moto Perpetuo (well A late-drawn Brighouse and Rastrick, under the baton done marimba!). Steven Mead’s clear-sighted overview of of Alan Morrison, seemed to want to get off the platform as this work made for a great sense of structure, particularly in quickly as possible, judging by the swift tempi adopted, the the final stages where the composer’s metronome markings majority of which were faster than the metronome markings were strictly observed, allowing an exciting build to the in the score. However, the band was generally secure and finish. However, a few moments of discomfort early in the there were some very good contributions from the soloists, performance prevented a higher placing. as well as a considerable amount of clarity in the articulation Under Andrew Duncan, Scottish Co-op did not appear of the contrapuntal passages. However, this was a reading entirely at ease with Edward Gregson’s test-piece, although of flash and dazzle, and it passed rather too quickly before it the playing was largely secure throughout. Some looseness made much of an impression. In the words of one audience in ensemble here and there in the Toccata and oddly stiff Kevin Crockford member, after a perusal of the score, it seemed to be ‘freely Siciliana and Waltz sections were contrasted by a very noisy

and aggressive Moto Perpetuo, taken at a faster tempo than appeared in the score. Dynamics were generally above those marked and, by the end, the tone of the band had become hard, as if it was seeking to impress by sheer brute force alone. 11th place was enough to keep the band away from Blackpool, and there must have been a huge sense of relief within the band after the results were revealed. Further down the placings, Flowers Band, under David Hirst, began well enough and continued promisingly, with a secure Toccata featuring good soprano contributions, but thereafter, discomfort seemed to spread and tuning began to suffer. The ensemble became loose and the solo work rather patchy, resulting in a convincing, but rather rough-edged account of the piece. Despite this, 12th place was well merited, but such is the keenness of the competition for places in the top tier of the British Open structure these days, that Flowers will drop down to the Grand Shield next year. Similarly, BTM under Nigel Boddice began quite confidently and continued with promise, but tuning problems and discomfort among the soloists, together with some looseness of ensemble in the latter stages of the piece, mitigated against a higher placing. Desford, under Nigel Seaman, displayed strong teams in many departments, but an early number three draw seemed to sap the band of the necessary vitality to raise its The winner of the 2008 British Open, Foden’s Richardson Band performance much above the competent. Some looseness

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 9

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BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 10

BB 8-9-10-11.indd 10 17-09-2008 17:31:53 2008 BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

of ensemble and a little insecurity in solo entries at times a number five draw, managed a well-controlled opening, but pleasant, along the way. The judges (Peter Parkes, Michael combined to give the impression of a sketch of the piece, couldn’t seem to inject very much life into the Toccata which Ball and David Read) were unanimous in their opinions of rather than a complete picture. followed. Insecurity in a few spots and rather swift tempi the bands at the top and bottom of the order, and the first It was not so many years ago that the arrival of either Fairey combined to rob the contention of distinction, with the tone named managed, in an act of apparent genius, to satisfy the or YBS onto the stage for their British Open contentions would of the band deteriorating in the stronger passages. audience’s appetite for comment during the prize ceremony have seen the hall full and enthusiastic applause from the At the bottom of the placings lies Rothwell, which had the while saying nothing at all about the playing in the contest audience. Sadly, both bands have been hit by withdrawal misfortune to suffer a number two draw. Under David Roberts, itself! of sponsorship and loss of players, although both bravely the band did its best to cope, but tuning problems near the Once Peter Roberts and Alan Pope had been given their well- continue to try to rebuild their reputations as forces to be very start, individual errors and some imprecision in the faster deserved Iles and Mortimer medals respectively, the results reckoned with. variations, together with an overall loss of tonal quality, all were announced by Robert Kerwick and well received by the Under Philip Chalk, Fairey began with a nicely-shaped conspired to result in a very disappointing last placing and a audience, although there was the inevitable collective sharp opening, but slips and looseness of ensemble spoiled the trip to Blackpool next year for the Grand Shield. intake of breath when Black Dyke was announced in sixth ensuing variations, despite some good contributions by the During the day, the composer expressed his pleasure at the place. No one, however, could deny Foden’s its 11th British soloists, especially principal cornet, Laura Hirst. The steam standard of the performances, although he was critical of Open success. seemed to evaporate as the final pages approached and the the way in which some conductors had taken liberties he did Whatever the result, the participants, whether playing or performance ended without the feeling of triumph inherent in not intend. Altogether, however, this was a most interesting listening, seemed to have enjoyed themselves greatly, and the score. Similarly YBS, under Morgan Griffiths, playing from British Open, with surprises, some pleasant and some not so even the weather was merciful.

Enjoyable Birmingham day trip for the ghosts of contests past

By Iwan Fox A little bit like Ebenezer Scrooge, many a worried with warm appreciation when they were first used, while conductor at the British Open would have had a sleepless Wilby’s Revelation was just that and more for many a night before this year’s contest, fretting about the musical conductor when faced with two separate choirs of brass to ghosts of contests past, present and future. Thankfully, direct in 1995. Edward Gregson is not ready to play the Jacob Marley Wilfred Heaton’s ‘Open’ legacy, of course, was just one role just yet, but he did conjure up enough apparitions masterful work - Contest Music, used twice, in 1988 and in his immensely enjoyable Rococo Variations to have the 2004, while it would have been hard for even such a skilful competing conductors clinging white-knuckled in fear to composer as Edward Gregson to improve on the near- Edward Gregson the bed sheets through the small hours of Friday night. perfection that formed the host of Eric Ball compositions used since 1946. Unfortunately, we have yet to hear a work With the British Open 156 years old, there were plenty for from the pen of Ray Steadman-Allen, but there is time. Full Results from him to choose from, but in the end he opted for a sextet of Elgar Howarth, Ray Steadman-Allen, Eric Ball, John The successful conductors on Rococo Variations not only Birmingham McCabe, Wilfred Heaton and Philip Wilby. It was a very knew their Gregson, but also understood and appreciated 1. Foden’s Richardson (G. Cutt) (drawn 10) interesting list too (it must be pointed out that four of these other compositional voices. The McCabe and 2. Grimethorpe Colliery (A. Withington) (6) them are very much still with us), with Ball and Heaton Howarth variations were more obscure and dislocated, 3. Cory (Dr. R. Childs) (11) possibly representing compositional voices from the past, the Steadman-Allen, lyrical and gentle, the Wilby 4. Leyland (J. Katsikaris) (4) Howarth, McCabe and Wilby the present, and Steadman- fearsomely vibrant. The central Heaton Lament was deeply 5. Kirkintilloch (S. Simonsen) (15) Allen, perhaps the future. introspective and melancholic, while in contrast, the 6. Black Dyke (Dr. N. Childs) (1) With the exception of the latter, each composer has made Ball was a delightfully witty amalgam waltz. It made for 7. Carlton Main Frickley Colliery (R. Gray) (12) an immense impact at this contest over the years, and so musical chapters as rich in character as anything Charles 8. Brighouse and Rastrick (A. Morrison) (16) the affectionate moments of illusion and quotation used Dickens could have managed to write. It also gave the 9. Hepworth (Cookson Homes) (I. Porthouse) (17) by Edward Gregson throughout his work were totally listener the opportunity to ponder over the choices they 10. Whitburn (S. Mead) (9) appropriate and justified. would have made given the chance to write a work for the 11. Scottish Co-op (A. Duncan) (13) contest, and it would have been fascinating to see what 12. Flowers (D. Hirst) (14)* 13. BTM (N. Boddice MBE) (7) Sepia tinted fragments of Cloudcatcher Fells, Contest Music other people would have come up with. Gilbert Vinter 14. Desford Colliery (N. Seaman) (3) and Journey Into Freedom were heard alongside elegant or Herbert Howells? Philip Sparke or Peter Graham? Paul 15. Fairey (P. Chalk) (8) ciphers from In Memoriam RK, The New Jerusalem and Lord Lovatt-Cooper or Peter Meechan? Past, present and future 16. YBS (M. Griffiths) (5) of the Sea, each providing fleeting moments of musical - the variations were endless. 17. Rothwell Temperance (D. Roberts) (2)* shadowing that enhanced his own mature writing. Thankfully, Edward Gregson stopped at the six he felt It was also interesting that Professor Gregson had picked at were the ones he wanted to use, otherwise poor old Jacob * denotes relegated to Grand Shield in 2009 least three composers who have had rather testing musical Marley would have been exhausted trying to fit them all Best Soloist: Glyn Williams, euphonium, Foden’s relationships with the British Open. Howarth’s Fireworks into his rounds on Friday night. Like adjudicators, even Richardson and McCabe’s Maunsell Forts were not exactly greeted ghosts need a tea break from their work now and again. Best Soprano Cornet: Kevin Crockford, Grimethorpe Colliery

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 11

BB 8-9-10-11.indd 11 17-09-2008 17:31:58 JUDD STREET COLLECTION THE MUSIC OF KENNETH DOWNIE

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BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 12

BB 12-13.indd 12 17-09-2008 16:57:59 BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 13

BB 12-13.indd 13 17-09-2008 16:58:00 FEATURE New CD collection to survey t David B. Diggs, Director of Winds at Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, US

An exciting new recording project entitled The Royal Heritage These CDs will be of particular interest due to the use of One of the leaders in this transition was Charles Godfrey, Collection is nearing completion. Under the leadership brass, with ‘natural’ (valveless) brass instruments featured in bandmaster of the Coldstream Guards. Godfrey is often of Lt. Col. Graham O. Jones MBE and performed by the Volumes 1 and 2 of the series. A chromatic , remembered as the patriarch of the dynasty of bandmasters Regimental Band of Her Majesty’s Coldstream Guards, with the keyed , was not invented until 1810, and prior to who served British bands for nearly a century. However, not the collaboration of Bandleader Recordings, the project will this time, brass instruments were mostly used for dramatic only was he bandmaster of the Coldstream Guards, but he present music from the repertoire of the bands of Brigade reinforcement of the harmonies. However, with the advent also served as the arranger for the Jullien’s Military Journals of Guards from 1785 to the present day. This provides an of valves and the resulting chromatic brass instruments, the published between 1844 and 1857. This collection consisted extraordinary insight into the music written during this wind band took on a far fuller sound, with brass carrying the of 160 arrangements for military band, which were sold by period, both for ceremonial and entertainment purposes. The melodic interest. This transition is clearly evident through the monthly subscription, with the list of subscribers including entire series will consist of fi ve compact discs, and Volumes span of the fi ve discs of the series. more than 120 bands in the British Army. The infl uence of this 1, 3 and 4 are currently available, with the remaining two in journal on the wind bands of the time was unparalleled, and production. The music featured in each volume of the series Volume 2 will roughly cover the period from 1795 to 1865. several arrangements by Charles Godfrey will be found on the has been carefully researched, with Volume 2 being especially During this time, the wind bands of the British Army grew second CD of this series. interesting, containing music by Charles Griesbach, a member in size and instrumentation, and began to include fl utes of When the series is viewed as a whole, it becomes evident of the Prince of Wales’ band. Also included is the British Army various sizes, sometimes as a replacement for the oboes, and that the music used for the ceremonial Birthday Parades Quadrille, which, when performed in 1846, utilised four bands percussion as an integral part of the musical texture, along refl ects the global changes in the repertoire of all bands. In from the Brigade of Guards, and Return of the Guards, written with the chromatic brass. The scoring suggests that this music the Victorian era, the music was comprised of arrangements by Dan Godfrey and played as the troops returned from the was primarily for outdoor use, but with a richer sound than of opera melodies or popular songs of the day, but as the Crimean War in 1856. before. time of King Edward VII approached, original marches, many

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 14

BB 14-15.indd 14 17-09-2008 16:43:47 FEATURE the history of military music USA, introduces a new release from the Regimental Band of the Coldstream Guards

by British composers, became used more often. This duality Victoria, 1864-1899. Instrumentation during this period any longer. The Music Division of the British Library has been of the music for the wind band can be seen in the works of included , and other instruments mostly particularly helpful as a source for many works that are extant Christopher Eley, which include his original music such as The found today in museums. It became necessary to meticulously only in a single edition. Duke of York’s March, together with arrangements of music rescore each of the marches used in this recording, not only Volume 4, The Kings’ Birthday Parades, 1901-1951, features hall melodies. Some might say that Eley began this duality of to make them playable by the modern wind band, but also to 23 marches with research and liner notes by Colin Dean, a the wind band music repertoire with his innovations for the maintain the original sound and character. noted military historian. The history of each of the marches Duke of York’s Band. is fully discussed and linked to the history of the parades in An obstacle in the production of this series was the location which they were used. The addition of relevant pictures and The fi rst volume in the set, The Music of Christopher Eley, of music from the earlier periods, and various factors were photographs makes the music come to life, and each disc in 1785 - 1794, provides an opportunity to hear the earliest of involved in its disappearance. As style and taste, or the the series has been given this same careful attention to detail. the wind band music for the Brigade of Guards. The music instrumentation of a band, changes, the older music got put used in the recordings has been carefully edited to maintain into storage and forgotten, or worse still, simply discarded. The fi nal volume of the series will include music for Queen the original style of the period. In addition, the use of natural As the band libraries grew, then additional storage space Elizabeth II, who is one of the longest reigning of British brass and the helps to recreate the sound of the late was needed and the older ‘obsolete’ music was eliminated. monarchs. The music from this period is very rich with original 18th century, as does the recording venue, being the original This sometimes also occured when bands moved to newer compositions due to the excellence of the bandmasters space for which it was written. quarters. Many of the older works were printed on low-quality who have served during this time. It is a fi tting close to paper, and thus deteriorated over time and, additionally, this wonderful series of music for ceremony, performed so Changes in instrumentation were never more evident than publishers did not keep their catalogues complete and brilliantly by the Regimental Band of Her Majesty’s Coldstream in Volume 3 of the set, Music from Trooping the Colour: Queen discontinued production of pieces that might not be profi table Guards.

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 15

BB 14-15.indd 15 17-09-2008 16:44:14 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS

Next weekend, 72 bands from throughout the United Kingdom Harrogate hopefuls r By Kenneth Crookston will travel to the North Yorkshire town of Harrogate to fight it The advent of the 1st Section in 1992 was heralded at the Commenting on the test-piece, Paul Kiernan, former Scottish time as a bridge over the ever-widening gap between the Co-op trombone star who makes his Finals debut as conductor out for the National titles for old Championship and 2nd Sections, with the intention that of Clackmannan District Brass, said: “The band is enjoying the the music chosen would challenge the bands preparing to test-piece immensely, although it is not the most technically Sections 1 to 4. move up to the top division and, hopefully, create a platform difficult piece we have played in recent years, so the standard for them to thrive at that level. In recent years, works such as of the competing bands may appear fairly close in many The International Conference Pageantry (Herbert Howells), A Kensington Concerto (Eric Ball) respects. Like all of Philip Sparke’s pieces, it is very well and Victorian Snapshots – On Ratcliff Highway have indeed written, though, and it is as enjoyable to play as it will be to Centre will resound to music by provided stern challenges for the bands, but a question still listen to.” remains over whether or not the 1st Section has fulfilled its This year the 1st Section begins early on Sunday morning, so Philip Sparke, Dean Goffin, John brief, with many observers of the opinion that the gulf in a number of band representatives may feel like saying their the standard of the two top sections is as wide as ever. The own private prayers before putting a hand into the velvet Rutter and Peter Yorke, in works relatively straight-forward nature of this year’s test, Philip bag, mindful of the fact that number one draws rarely result Sparke’s The Saga of Haakon the Good, will do little to allay in victory at this level, although it would make a refreshing on which the competing bands these fears, although there is no doubt that it will provide an change if that particular statistic could be laid to rest some enjoyable test for the bands that will at the same time satisfy time soon. will have spent months working, the appetite of the listening audience. Although our prediction will inevitably be wrong, here it is Melvin White and Steve Sykes are the safe pairs of hands anyway: all in the hope that they will be appointed to the adjudicators’ box and, if most previous years’ 1. Skelmanthorpe events are anything to go by, they will have their work cut 2. Newbridge Celynen able to make their own piece of in separating the bands at the top. So, which are the leading 3. Beaumaris contenders for the 1st Section title? 4. Bo’ness and Carriden history. All 17 bands have qualified from their respective regional The 1st Section test-piece may be relatively straightforward championships, so current form is good in every case. this year, but the bands competing in Section 2 have a British Bandsman’s preview However, although the debate over which are the strongest mountain to climb in Dean Goffin’s Rhapsodic Variations – My regions may be fairly easy to settle at Championship section Strength, My Tower. The section that has had to contend with level, it isn’t so clear in the Lower Sections. blockbusters like Vaughan Williams’ Variations for Brass Band begins with Kenneth Crookston’s Skelmanthorpe and Stannington were the first two bands to and Sir Arthur Bliss’s Belmont Variations in recent years has qualify from Yorkshire at the beginning of March and both once again drawn the short straw, and Rodney Newton’s overview of the competing have experienced conductors in John Roberts and Derek opinion in last week’s edition of BB that the piece ‘would Renshaw respectively. The following week, victories were challenge even the Championship Section, and any 2nd bands, while Rodney Newton grabbed by Glossop Old (Midlands), Bo’ness and Carriden Section band that can make a really good job of it will fully (Scotland), Newbridge (Wales), Helston (West of England) deserve to be a section higher’ will very likely be proved true examines the 1st Section test- and Roberts Bakery (North West). Jersey Premier Brass next Sunday evening. (London and Southern Counties) continued its upwardly- Regardless of the magnitude of the task, each of the 16 piece and we take a look some of mobile ways a week later and Kirkbymoorside Town qualifiers will have been totally committed to overcoming completed the list of 1st Section champions in Darlington at the considerable challenges contained within the test-piece the activities of the event’s main the end of March. Every one of them will head for Harrogate in their efforts to impress Peter Roberts and Jim Davies, who hopeful of victory and John Roberts of Skelmanthorpe no have themselves acquired a sizeable collection of silverware sponsor, York Instruments. doubt summed up the feelings of many conductors when throughout their playing careers. he said: “We have had loads of sectional rehearsals and we Among the conductors taking part are a number with BB will be in Harrogate next are looking forward to working hard on the piece in the last experience at the highest level, and Raymond Tennant, who week. We’ve also performed the piece in a concert in which once again leads Johnstone Band, was keen to point out week to bring all the drama and the acoustic in the hall was similar to that of the Conference that, although there is a sizeable task ahead, it should be Centre at Harrogate, so we are giving it our best shot, hopeful achievable by some, commenting: “There are a few good excitement that we can pull off another victory to go with our wins at bands in the contest and I have my own feelings about the Butlins and the ‘Area’ earlier this year. There are lot of nice favourites, but Johnstone has strengthened the cornet and in words and pictures in our lyrical passages in the piece and the opening unison section bass sections with experienced players and hopes to mount will be a big test for most of the bands, but other than that, a serious challenge. I think the piece is well suited to the 2nd edition of 4 October, so order I expect that the majority will get close to pulling off a good Section and although much will hinge on the slow movement, performance of a piece that is considerably easier than the there is a lot more to it than that. It is a shorter piece than your copy now! one used at the ‘Area’, James Cook-Circumnavigator.” we are used to but there is still plenty there to test all of the

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 16

BB 16-17.indd 16 17-09-2008 16:32:36 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS s ready for marathon weekend

bands.” make a good job of it. The slow movement needs to be really So yet another keenly-fought contest is in store, but which The most experienced man on stage will be the irrepressible well shaped and the cornet and euphonium parts will be very of the competitors will be successful? Well, 2nd Section Richard Evans, who was also a member of the panel that chose important. The closing section needs to be very tight and it banding at this level is so closely matched that it is impossible Dean Goffin’s work as the test-piece for this section. Richard could go wrong if bands go too quick, so my advice is to stick to foresee the result, but a scientific poll of the BB office has commented: “When we chose it, I thought it was a fairly with metronome markings and keep the concentration level come up with the following prediction nevertheless: straightforward test, but once I got stuck in to rehearsals, I up. My own band, Barton, has worked tremendously hard 1. Point of Ayr Colliery realised how hard it really is. There are those who will say it on the piece already and the final week will be really busy. 2. Wardle and District Anderson Brass is a bit of a challenge for the 2nd Section, but bands that are They’re a lovely bunch, though, and so well organised. I’m 3. Barton Town. about to be promoted to the 1st Section should manage to really looking forward to it.” 4. Tylorstown

SECTION 1 SECTION 2 Sunday 28 September, commencing at 9.30am Sunday 28 September, commencing after the Award Ceremony for Section 1 Test-piece: The Saga of Haakon the Good (Philip Sparke) Test-piece: Rhapsodic Variations – My Strength, My Tower (Dean Goffin, adapted by Adjudicators: Melvin White and Steve Sykes Brian Bowen) Section Controller: Peter Dalby Adjudicators: Peter Roberts and Jim Davies 1. Beaumaris (G. Evans) Wales Section Controller: John Slater 2. Blackburn and Darwen (N. Sheppard) North West 1. Alder Valley Brass (R. Burke) London and Southern Counties 3. Bo’ness and Carriden (M. Marzella) Scotland 2. Barton Town (R. Evans) North of England 4. Clackmannan District Brass (P. Kiernan) Scotland 3. Bristol East and Kingswood (R. Curran) West of England 5. Glossop Old (J. Davies) Midlands 4. Campbeltown Brass (C. Anderson) Scotland 6. Hathern (D. Newman) Midlands 5. City of Coventry Brass (S. Cooper) Midlands 7. Helston Town (J. Hitchens) West of England 6. Epsom and Ewell (T. Howard) London and Southern Counties 8. Ipswich and Norwich Co-op (R. Norman) London and Southern Counties 7. Harborough (C. Groom) Midlands 9. Jersey Premier Brass (T. Pritchard) London and Southern Counties 8. Haslingden and Helmshore (D. Holland) North West 10. Kirkbymoorside Town Brass (J. Woodward) North of England 9. Johnstone (R. Tennant) Scotland 11. Newbridge (Celynen) (P. Holland) Wales 10. Murton Colliery (D. Noble) North of England 12. Otterbourne (Lt. Col. C. Davis OBE) West of England 11. Point of Ayr Colliery (M. Fowles) Wales 13. Phoenix West Midlands Brass (D. Maplestone) Midlands 12. Shrewton Silver (M. Dunford) West of England 14. Roberts Bakery (C. Cranson) North West 13. Slaithwaite (B. Hudson) Yorkshire 15. Skelmanthorpe (J. Roberts) Yorkshire 14. Tylorstown (G. Davies) Wales 16. Stannington (D. Renshaw) Yorkshire 15. Wardle and District Anderson Brass (S. Conway) North West 17. Wansbecks Ashington Colliery (N. Stedman) North of England 16. YBS Concert Brass (I. Craddock) Yorkshire

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 17

BB 16-17.indd 17 17-09-2008 16:32:38 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS

One of the best-known composers in the world of brass and wind band music today, Philip Sparke’s work constantly appears on concert and contest programmes the world over and scarecly a year goes by, than some new test-piece or concert blockbuster appears. He was born in London and studied composition, and piano at the Royal College of Music (RCM), and it was at there that he became interested in brass and wind bands. The RCM had a wind band, in which he played, but there was no brass band - so he founded one, giving him oppoprtunity to exercise his skills as a composer by writing music for both. He found a publisher and his published works - Concert Prelude for brass band and Gaudium for wind band - appeared on the market. His music began to attract attention and several commissions came his way, including one for the Centennial Brass Band Championships in New Zealand – Land of the Long White Cloud. This established his reputation and further commissions followed from bands, band associations and the BBC. Three times he won the EBU New Music for Band competition (with Slipstream, Skyrider and Orient Express) and his brass band test-pieces have included works for championships in New Zealand, Switzerland, Holland, Australia and three times for the National Final at the Royal Albert Hall. A close association with banding in Japan led to the commissioning of a work (Celebration) for the Kosei Wind Orchestra in Tokyo and the recording of his music by this professional ensemble. This raised his profi le in the world of wind bands and several commissions, particularly from the United States, followed. In 1996, the US Air Force Band commissioned and recorded Dance Movements, which won the prestigious Sudler Prize in 1997 and, in 2005, Music of the Spheres won the National Band Association/William D. Revelli Memorial Band Composition Contest. He is active as a conductor and adjudicator in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the USA, and he runs his own publishing company, Anglo Music Press, which he formed in May 2000. In September 2000, he was awarded the Iles Medal of the Worshipful Company of Musicians for his services to brass bands. The Saga of Haakon the Good was commissioned by Hornmusik of in celebration of the joining of the two communities, Frei and , in January this year. Frei Hornmusik then used the work as its test-piece in the Norwegian National Brass Band Championships the following month. It centres on the story of King Haakon I of Norway (circa 920-961), the foster-son of King Athelstan of England. On the event of his father’s death, and aided by support from King Athelstan, Haakon embarked on a military campaign against his half-brother, the fearsome Eirik Bloodaxe, to claim the throne of Norway. Eirik and his sons formed an alliance with the Danes, but met with defeat at

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 18

BB 18-19.indd 18 17-09-2008 16:40:23 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS

Rodney Newton examines the 2008 1st Section National Final test-piece, The Saga of Haakon the Good, and looks at the life of its composer, Philip Sparke

the hands of Haakon’s army. On one occasion, at the Battle solo cornet and solo euphonium have a duet in octaves that rafters ring, as the enemy is routed and Haakon’s forces romp of Rastarkalv, Haakon employed the clever subterfuge of will need absolute security of intonation. This pair brings the on to win the day in a triumphant C major. convincing the enemy that his forces were larger than they movement to a soft close, underscored by and This is a very entertaining piece and should enjoy popularity were, by placing ten standards far apart on a ridge. Eirik and basses, settling on a pause. A tom-tom beats out a 6/8 quick among bands and their supporters at Harrogate. While not the Danes were fooled and vanquished as Haakon’s forces march rhythm and basses and timpani grunt truculently as as technically challenging as some 1st Section test-piece in swept to victory. However, not everything went Haakon’s way. the final movement,The Battle of Rastarkalv, arrives. A lively recent years (it could well have been selected for bands a Raised as a Christian, he attempted to introduce his people to theme in the euphoniums answered by the horns, followed section lower), the piece needs playing very musicaly, with the Christian faith, but was unsuccessful in converting them by the cornets in consecutive triads. The frantic activity attention being given to tuning and balance as well as to from the worship of Odin and the Norse gods. When he died subsides into a gritty theme for the trombones (Ex. 9) taken tidiness of ensemble. Haakon’s forces may have won the (in 961, from wounds sustained at the Battle of Fitjar), the up by the full band. The mood is positive, but snarling basses Battle of Rastarkalv by subterfuge, but that not will avail any court bard composed an ode which pictured Haakon being and fluttertongued trombones provide the antagonism. of bands in Harrogate. welcomed into Valhalla to sit with the gods and his ancestors. The swirling mellé is interrupted by a fanfare passage and a Playing all the notes, in the right place at the right time will The first movement of Philip Sparke’s three-movement suite loud war-cry (literally!) from everyone that should make the do in the saga of the 2008 1st Section Final. is entitled The Future King. Solo cornets and euphoniums in octaves have the first word in an introductory passage in a modal A minor, with a brief dip into tonal ambiguity /HQWRHVSUHVVLYR   ([ VRORFRUQHWVLQ%K (Ex. 1). The gentle theme, representing the noble Haakon   5E5 55 5  himself, no doubt, is repeated with fuller scoring and leads G  I5555 5 I5555 55 5 E5 !5 5 E5 I5 E5 5 5 !5 '   5 5 5 5 5 55 !5!5 5 5 to a brief con moto, the key unexpectedly switched to E flat minor. Suddenly, the progress of the music is abruptly ([ ([ VRORHXSKRQLXPLQ%K 9LYR   HWF truncated and, once more, the key centre changes, this time 5: 5 HXSKRQLXPVLQ%K   5E5 5E5 E5E5 5 E555  5 E5E5  M to D major, and a warm theme appears on a solo euphonium G  5:5E5 5 E5  E55E5  ?4=5 E5 E5 5: 55  E5  : (Ex. 2). This section is marked Hymn to Frei and builds to an Allegro moderato in which the first sounds of aggression are I M M  I IE5 5E5 I IE5I 5I 5I 5I E5 5I!5E5 5I   heard. However, the moment quickly passes and the Hymn G 5 5E5 E5 5 5 5E5 5 5E5 : E5 5 : E555 5 5  5  I I J 5 J  5: to Frei reappears softly on muted instruments and twinkling glockenspiel. This leads straight into the second movement, ([ VRORFRUQHWLQ%K M 5 M M The Journey to Trondheim in which the euphoniums state a   =?  555 555 5 55 555: 555:555: 445 5 5 5 M G  5 5 5 B 5 5  : : 5 5 5 sturdy theme in E minor over a moving bass (Ex. 3). Tenor  5 

horns and baritones take up the story in canon, leading to a 0DHVWRVR   ([ VWWURPERQHLQ%K HWF([ VRORFRUQHWVLQ%K statement by the full band. An impatient little phrase begins VROR 5 5   44  5 5 5 5: 5 55 B  E5 555 5 E555E5E5 on soprano cornet and flugel horn and is taken up by a solo G  5 5  55 5 :  I5  E55 555 5  QRQVWDFF  cornet and extended (Ex. 4), the panting figure on the first JJ two beats seeming to suggest that Haakon is anxious to get /HQWRHVSUHVVLYR    ([  to his destination. This is developed in a contrapuntal fashion HWF VRORHXSKRQLXPLQ%K E5 E5 and, in turn leads to a solo for 1st trombone (Ex. 5) over an  555 55 5E555E55 5  5 5: 5 5 5 5 5: 5 5 5 G E55555 5555  5  E5 5 5  5 555 accompaniment of bare fifths. This rises to a climax and there JPROWRHVSUHVV is a reprise of earlier material culminating to a Maestoso in which cornets fanfare over a snare drum tattoo (Ex. 6) - 0ROWRFDOPR   ([ VRORFRUQHWVLQ%K evidently Haakon has arrived. 5 5 HWF  5 5E5 5 : 5 5E555 5 G 5  5 5 5 B 5 5: 5 5:5 5 5 5 5 5 5 B The third section of the work, The Missionary King follows   directly and begins with a modal chant-like melody for the trombones accompanied by a tolling bell, which prefaces an ([ 9LYR VW QGWURPERQHVLQ%K expressive theme in a modal D minor the euphoniums (Ex. 7). 5  5 5 5 5 5 5  The expansive melody is answered by soft horns as the tonal G 5 5 5 5 5 B:  5 SRFRPDUF5 5 centre drops for a moment to D flat, and a crescendo to a warm climax before a new theme appears on the solo cornets at a hushed ppp (Ex. 8), which is developed by the principal  5 5 5 5 cornet. There is a swell and a sudden swing back to D minor G B 5 5 5 5 : 5 5 5 B B in which the theme heard on the euphoniums at the outset &RS\ULJKW‹E\$QJOR0XVLF3UHVV UHSURGXFHGE\NLQGSHUPLVVLRQ of the movement is now stated fortissimo by the baritones, trombones and euphoniums. The movement relaxes and

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 19

BB 18-19.indd 19 17-09-2008 16:40:32 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS Rutter and Yorke challe by Rodney Newton

Section 3 will have the pleasant task of playing John Rutter’s tuneful Suite for Brass (excellently arranged from his Suite for Strings by Sandy Smith). The music is easy on the ear, but will the 3rd Section bands fall into the trap of thinking it too easy? There are hidden pitfalls everywhere and getting the style right will be of paramount importance. This is also music that requires the finest sound a band can make - easy stuff? We’ll see!

Of the Section 3 bands contesting in Harrogate, a marauder from just over the Border, Annan Town (APD), will be looking to make an impression. David Shanks has directed this 107 year-old band for the past 18 years and has kept it up to a good standard. Annan Town’s compatriot, Dalkeith and Monktonhall Colliery, has been around for even longer (there are records of a band in the area as far back as 1892). Musical Director, Jim Chamberlain, is one of the younger generation of conductors breathing new life into banding.

Representing the North of England, Billingham Silver’s conductor, Vaughan Evans, has had a very long tenure with his band, having been Musical Director for 36 years. A former principal cornet and the grandson of a founder member of the band, he is only the third conductor the band has had in its entire 67-year history and will be hoping to take the 3rd Section trophy back to Billingham. Fellow North of England representative, Flookborough, also has a most experienced musician taking it to Harrogate in the person of conductor, composer and adjudicator, John Iveson, former principal makes the Yorkshire team very strong contenders indeed. London and Southern Counties will field three bands, Brighton trombone of the BBC Symphony, Royal Philharmonic and The North West will be represented by Oldham (Lees) and and Hove City Brass, Hangleton and Littleport Brass. The first Royal Opera House orchestras. His orchestral background Pemberton Old Wigan JJB ‘B’. The experienced John Collins named band has now made it to the ‘Finals’ Five times, and makes him a perfect choice to direct John Rutter’s folksong- will conduct Oldham and Pemberton Old ‘B’, a band with a will be seeking to do as well as it did in 1994 and 1997, when inspired suite. consistent contest record, will be conducted by Peter Ashley it won its sections. Near neighbours, Hangleton Band, is a Representing the Yorkshire region will be one of the area’s and will be seeking to impress in Harrogate. flourishing organisation with a healthy membership and a youngest bands and one of its oldest. Youthful debutante The Midland Region boasts three representatives: Matlock, youth band. Conductor, Matthew Pollard is a Yorkshireman band, Garforth Brass, was only founded three years ago. University of Warwick, an offshoot of the University’s and studied at Huddersfield University with Geoffrey Under its conductor, Steven Bailey, this baby among the bands flourishing Brass Society, and Wellington (Telford), to be Whitham, Phillip McCann and Barrie Webb. Together they has fairly rocketed up the league tables, having been placed directed by Stephen Curtis, a former pupil of Abraham Darby present a formidable team. Littleport Brass Band has been second in this year’s 3rd Section Regional Championship and Secondary School and an alumnus of the Band Musicianship around since 1880 and hails from Cambridgeshire. Conducted winning its section at July’s Morley March and Hymn Contest - course at Salford University, who has been keeping his by former GUS player, Nigel Bramley, the band’s contest record a very creditable achievement indeed and one which suggests Wellington Band on its toes since 2001. has improved dramatically over the last year and now has a that the band may do well in Harrogate. Also representing Wales will be represented by the well-established Blaenavon chance to prove itself in a wider arena. The West of England’s Yorkshire will be Rockingham Band. Founded in 1850 among Town Band under the direction of former Royal Regiment of contenders, Bath Spa and Verwood Concert Brass complete the coalmines of Birdwell and Hoyland, the band played for Wales euphonium soloist and Sheffield Unuversity graduate, the line-up and each will be keen to continue their excellent many years in the ‘old’ 2nd Section, enjoying something of Lyndon Price, and by City of Cardiff (Melingriffith), to be recent form. As for a prediction, I’m going to plump for: a ‘purple patch’ in the 1980s. The band’s conductor, Frank directed by former Cory player, Gareth Ritter. The latter band 1. Oldham (Lees) Hoyland, comes from a family whose banding roots go back can trace its roots right back to a drum and fife band in 1789 2. Garforth 110 years to grandfather, Ernest Hoyland, conductor of and has links with the pioneer 19th century brass band 3. Matlock Swanwick Colliery Band. This mixture of youth and experience composer, T.J. Powell. 4. Verwood Concert Brass

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 20

BB 20-21.indd 20 17-09-2008 16:35:12 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS lenge Sections 3 and 4

Section 4 comprises 20 bands, three each for the Midlands, drawn from local schools. Under the direction of its founder, and Severn Tunnel (a mere stripling of 85 years), which will the North West, the West of England and London and Graham Walker, it has seen its fortunes improve in recent be directed by Andrea Ayres. London and Southern Counties Southern Counties, and two each for the North of England, years and will be keen to show that it can hold its own in representatives will be headed by ‘Area’ winner, Hemel Yorkshire, Scotland and Wales. Whereas the test-piece for this more mature company! Yorkshire will be represented by Hempstead, which, under Graham Weeks, will be keen to year’s Regional Championships was specially written so that Lofthouse 2000 and Skelmanthorpe ‘B’, both bands making repeat its earlier history when, as the John Dickinson Band, most bands of 4th Section standard could play it, Peter Yorke’s a favourable impression on this writer, who co-adjudicated it enjoyed success under a young conductor called Geoffrey The Shipbuilders presents an altogether tougher challenge. the Yorkshire ‘Area’, while the North West will see Lostock Brand. ‘Finals’ debutante, Cold Ash Brass (at least, in its 2003 Although deceptively simple and attractive to listen to, it Hall Memorial, Tarlton and Uppermill ‘clocking-on’, the latter, incarnation) and Tadley Concert Brass (under Paul Chapman) contains a number of pitfalls in terms of dynamics and rhythm under the direction of Alan Widdop, having won its Regional will join Hemel Hempstead in an assault on the Championship as well as overall shape and balance. Championship in quite a spectacular fashion. title. Regarding Hemel Hempstead’s forthcoming contention, Joining the workforce at our Harrogate shipyard will be Irvine The Midland region will be represented by Amington, conductor Graham Weeks told BB: “The band is really looking and Dreghorn and Renfrew Burgh from Scotland. Under David Croft Silver and Thoresby Colliery Youth. Amington won the forward to Harrogate. The Shipbuilders is certainly tricky in McKellar, the former band decisively won this year’s ‘Regionals’ ‘Area’ under conductor, Wesley Kendrick, well known for places, but we never get tired of rehearsing it. It’s a great and look forward to doing the same at Harrogate, while the his arrangements for the Staffordshire Band, while, in neat piece!” latter, a long-established band, will be seeking similar success alphabetical order, Croft Silver and Thoresby Colliery Youth Predicting the outcome of the 4th Section is a hazardous under the baton of former professional orchestral horn player, came second and third respectively. Making the long journey process, but our pin landed in the following bands when we David Hutcheson. from the West Country will be Brunel Brass (another brass closed our eyes: band ‘baby’, being only two years old), Totnes and Wincanton 1. Uppermill For the North of England, Kirkby Lonsdale and South Milford Silver, while the Welsh contingent will be comprised of 2. Lofthouse 2000 will fly the flag. The latter will be comprised of some of the Crosskeys Silver Band (another ‘old-stager’ of 137 years), 3. Amington youngest players in the 4th Section Final, being largely which will appear under its regular conductor, Kerry Bowden, 4. Renfrew Burgh

SECTION 3 SECTION 4 Saturday 27 September, commencing after the Award Ceremony for Section 4 Saturday 27 September, commencing at 9.30am Test-piece: Suite for Brass (John Rutter, arranged by Sandy Smith) Test-piece: The Shipbuilders Suite for Brass Band (Peter Yorke) Adjudicators: Stan Lippeatt and Kevin Wadsworth Adjudicators: Richard Evans and Chris Wormald Section Controller: David Hobbs Section Controller: Peggy Tomlinson 1. Annan Town (APD) (D. Shanks) Scotland 1. Amington (W. Kendrick) Midlands 2. Bath Spa (D. Hayward) West of England 2. Brunel Brass (J. Winterflood)West of England 3. Billingham Silver (V. Evans) North of England 3. Cold Ash Brass (M. Clark) London and Southern Counties 4. Blaenavon Town (L. Price) Wales 4. Croft Silver (I. Needham) Midlands 5. Brighton and Hove City Brass (M. Hackett) London and Southern Counties 5. Crosskeys Silver (K. Bowden) Wales 6. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (G. Ritter)Wales 6. Hemel Hempstead (G. Weeks) London and Southern Counties 7. Dalkeith and Monktonhall Colliery (J. Chamberlain) Scotland 7. Irvine and Dreghorn (D. McKellar) Scotland 8. Eagley (G. Westwood) North West 8. Kirkby Lonsdale (A. Greenwood) North of England 9. Flookburgh (J. Iveson) North of England 9. Lofthouse 2000 (A. Whittaker) Yorkshire 10. Garforth Brass (S. Bailey) Yorkshire 10. Lostock Hall Memorial (J. Wood) North West 11. Hangleton (M. Pollard) London and Southern Counties 11. Renfrew Burgh (D. Hutcheson) Scotland 12. Littleport Brass (N. Bramley) London and Southern Counties 12. Severn Tunnel (A. Ayres) Wales 13. Matlock (R. Jepson) Midlands 13. Skelmanthorpe ‘B’ (P. Garlick) Yorkshire 14. Oldham (Lees) (J. Collins) North West 14. South Milford (R. Wilton) North of England 15. Pemberton Old Wigan JJB ‘B’ (P. Ashley) North West 15. Tadley Concert (P. Chapman) London and Southern Counties 16. Rockingham (F. Hoyland) Yorkshire 16. Tarleton (G. Bould) North West 17. University of Warwick (S. Hogg) Midlands 17. Thoresby Colliery Youth (C. Gent) Midlands 18. Verwood Concert Brass (D. Johnson) West of England 18. Totnes (I. Wilkinson) West of England 19. Wellington (Telford) (S. Curtis) Midlands 19. Uppermill (A. Widdop) North West 20. Wincanton Silver (B. Kelloway) West of England

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BB 20-21.indd 21 17-09-2008 16:35:13 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS Busy year for ‘National’ sponsor By Kenneth Crookston

Since making its debut on the international brass stage at the all of these events. It is important for the York brand to be Frankfurt Music Fair in early 2007, it’s fair to say that the York associated with the biggest and best occasions in the brass brand has made a major impact in the world of brass bands. band world, and the quality of our world-class endorsees In addition to manufacturing a high-quality product, York has is a clear indication that we strive for the highest standards based much of its marketing strategy around its support of of performance in every aspect of our operation. However, major events in the calendar and, in the past year, it has been it is also important for us to get out to international music principal sponsor of the National Brass Band Championships shows and exhibitions and in this respect we have had a of Great Britain, the Australian, New Zealand and German presence at the NAMM Show in the USA in January, Frankfurt championships and the International Brass Band Summer International Music Fair in March and MID Europe in Austria in School in Swansea, Wales. July. We will also be in Shanghai and Moscow in October. York As well as the above events, York has also had a presence is also proud to be involved for the first time at the Brass in at the Norwegian Championships in Bergen, the European Concert Championships at The Sage Gateshead in November, Championships in Stavanger, the Grenland International when we shall be supporting the workshop appearances of Festival in Norway, Eurobrass in the Netherlands, the Richard Marshall, Derick Kane and Joe Cook.” International Euphonium Conference in the USA, the So, what future developments can we expect to see in the following development work in Germany during the summer, Swedish Brass Band Festival, the Swiss Championships, York range? John Rogers continued: “We will have a new and our new range of intermediate instruments, which will the Holland Brass Festival, the Great Northern Brass Arts medium/large cornet in production, the 4027 model, start to be available before year end. Richard Marshall, Angelo Festival in Manchester, the All-England Masters International which is an Eminence level instrument. We sometimes forget Bearpark, David Childs and Owen Farr have been involved in Championships, Oldham and Saddleworth Whit Friday in brass bands that two-thirds of the world play trumpet the development, and we have consulted with musicians and contests, the RNCM Festival of Brass and more than 50 first and cornet second, and a lot of players in this position educators to ensure the products will be widely accepted. The workshops, masterclasses and concerts with York performing find the large bore instruments difficult to deal with. For range includes cornets, tenor horns, baritones, euphoniums artists and brass bands all over the world. this reason alone, the 4027 will be a great addition to our (three and four-valve, non-compensating) and Eb and BBb Speaking recently to BB on behalf of York, John Rogers range. We also have a new medium bell euphonium – the non-compensating tubas. All told, it’s a very exciting time to commented: “We are very proud of our association with 4051 model – which will be with David Childs in Harrogate be involved with York Instruments.”

Richard York. “I am what I play”

Richard Marshall, Principal Cornet Black Dyke Band and International Soloist

Brass at its best can also be a part of you. www.york-brass.com

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 22

BB 22-23.indd 22 17-09-2008 17:29:54 2008 LOWER SECTION FINALS

Player clinics and recitals the Sunday, Owen Farr will dazzle the audience at Harrogate with his playing in a short recital after Section 1 and David launched at Lower Section Childs will give a recital after Section 2, while on the Saturday (27th), cornet ace, Angelo Bearpark, will give a recital after ‘Finals’ Section 4 and the British Army Band will entertain the audience after Section 3. Schreiber and Keilwerth, the principal sponsor of the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain, is to host clinics Said Philip Morris of Kapitol Promotions Ltd., which presents at the Lower Section Finals in Harrogate International the Finals: “These clinics and recitals represent an innovation Centre next weekend (27 and 28 September), led by its top at the Finals. We hope that instrumentalists fi nd the clinics endorsees, David Childs (euphonium) and Owen Farr (tenor benefi cial and the recitals exciting additions to the weekend.” horn). The two soloists will be on hand on the Sunday (28th) to give York heralds the Finals (set to take place this year in Harrogate instrumentalists a spot of one-to-one help with their playing. International Centre on 27 and 28 September 2008 and in the Those interested in taking advantage of this expert help Royal Albert Hall, London, on 11 October) as the most famous should visit the York exhibition in the Foyer of Harrogate and glamorous brass band contest in the world. International Centre, where representatives of the Company Said Andreas Gafke, Sales and Marketing Director of York: will steward players to the clinics from 11.00am to 1.00pm “The ‘National’ is a great opportunity to further enhance and 3.30 to 5.30pm. York’s close connection with the British brass band scene. We The clinics have already commenced with York’s on-line therefore thank Kapitol Promotions for its great co-operation Tips from the Top service for bands in sections 1 to 4, during with York during the past year. We would also like to wish all the two weeks leading up to the Lower Section Finals. York participating bands a successful preparation for the Finals and artists - David Childs, Owen Farr, Richard Marshall and David we look forward to meeting them at their respective Final Thornton - are publishing their playing tips twice a week events.” on-line, and York hopes that its new service will produce an enhanced contesting experience for players and conductors alike.

Commenting on the new Tips from the Top service, one of York’s leading lights, David Childs, said: “Combined, these little tips may just help players to achieve a slightly higher level of performance but, at the end of the day, the most important thing to remember is why we do this. We make music, play in a band and spend hours and hours practising because it’s our hobby; it’s what we love to do. If you are as prepared as you can be, there is no reason why going out onto the contest platform to make music with fellow musicians should not be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all concerned. If it all goes as well as possible, it’s fantastic but, if your band has a particularly bad day, it’s not the end of the world. It’s a band contest; you’ll still wake up in the morning! Good luck to everyone. Enjoy the experience.”

For more Tips from the Top, please visit www.york-brass.com York is also sponsoring recitals at the end of each of the four sectional competitions, prior to the awards ceremonies. On

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 23

BB 22-23.indd 23 17-09-2008 17:30:33               

                             

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BB 24-25.indd 24 17-09-2008 16:32:10 EVENTS Massed Brass Band Concert Massed forces set to Sunday 28th September 2008. 2pm delight Sage Gateshead Musical Director: Ray Farr audience by John Ward

The popular massed band concert series promoted by The Sage Gateshead returns next Sage Gateshead weekend, with the concert on Sunday 28 September at 2.00pm featuring the new British Open Champion, Foden’s Richardson, East Yorkshire Motor Services, Lockwood, and Northumbrian featuring: Water Ellington Colliery bands with soloists, Helen Williams (fl ugel), Lesley Howie (horn), John Foden’s Richardson Band Barber (trombone) and Leslie Neish (tuba), all under the musical direction of Ray Farr. East Yorkshire Motor Services Band Speaking to BB, Ray Farr commented: “Sunday afternoon performances are given three times Lockwood Band, Northumbrian Water Ellington Colliery Band a year and have proved very popular with music lovers in the north east, attracting an average audience of over 1,000 people, some of whom have never been to a brass band concert before.” Soloists: He continued: “Repertoire for this series is always deliberately popular in style, ranging from Helen Williams (fl ugel) famous marches and local folk song arrangements to major band pieces such as Journey to the Lesley Howie (horn) Centre of the Earth, …Dove Descending and An Age of Kings.” John Barber (trombone) The bands that have taken part so far have included local groups such as Fishburn, Reg Vardy Les Neish (tuba) and EYMS bands, and those from slightly further afi eld have been YBS, Whitburn and Foden’s Richardson, with Krohnengen travelling from Norway and Lyngby-Taarbaek from Denmark. The The programme will include: Indiana Jones, You Raise Me Up, Le Carnival Romain, star-studded array of soloists has included Richard Martin, David Thornton, Richard Marshall American in Paris, Quintessence and Galaxies. and Roger Webster. Future concerts in December this year and February 2009 are in the planning stage and Ticket offi ce: will include guests David Childs (euphonium) and Mathias Wehr (winner of the European 0191 443 4661 Conductors’ Competition 2008). If your band would like to be considered for participation in this series, please contact: [email protected]

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 25

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BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 26

BB 26-27.indd 26 17-09-2008 16:38:22 CRITICS CORNER More new publications from Lake Dr. Robert Childs takes a look at the latest publications from Lake Music.

it is Russian in fl avour, with more than one reference to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. This is a fresh sounding march with some particularly good percussion writing. Watch out for the surprise cross-rhythms in the side drum towards the end and the optional canon to close!

These three additions to the Lake Music Catalogue are all welcomed. For more information on these pieces and many others I strongly recommend a visit to the Lake Music website. www.lake-music.com, which is in four languages: Dutch, English, German and French, and customers are able to buy music in any currency. The site also aff ords the facility of downloading MP3 samples via Real Player or Quicktime (both software packages are downloadable from the site, as is Scorch 2). The customer can also see the quality of the printed page by downloading PDF fi les via Sibelius Scorch. Music is well categorised in clearly defi ned sections: concert marches, Lake Music has quickly established itself as a high-quality quickly become very popular indeed. religious music, classical, concert, solo, entertainment and publishing company specialising in brass band music. The March 1812 is an original composition in a traditional style Christmas. Lake Music also has a page designated to new music I have been asked to review is very well produced and format. It’s very well written and, as the title suggests, material and Kirklees Fanfare Band Music. and packaged. The scores are bound with strong, stainless steel spiral binders and the outer covers are glossy and well designed. The music itself is printed clearly on heavy quality paper and each set provides four solo cornet copies. Band of Brothers, from the HBO mini-series, is music composed by the late Michael Kamen and skilfully arranged for brass band by Rieks van der Velde. The music begins in grand fashion featuring the whole band and percussion section. It is unmistakable fi lm music and would make a good opening to a concert or entertainment competition. Lake Music categorises the diffi culty level of all their music and I would agree with it that this piece is of a medium to diffi cult rating. One of the facets of this arrangement that contributes to it being labelled C/D is the high writing for the euphonium, cornet and soprano. However, the musical rewards of performing Band of Brothers are plentiful, especially the beautiful lyrical section, which features the principal cornet. This work closes peacefully with the full band playing mezzo piano.

Tribute To The Duke is a Duke Ellington Selection arranged by Richard Grantham. The selection features three popular Ellington tunes - In a Sentimental Mood, which begins as a trombone solo and features the glockenspiel to very good eff ect, Mood Indigo, which also commences with the trombone marked Lusheroso (referring to the great trombonist Don Lusher), closes with the euphonium and skilfully leads into It Don’t Mean a Thing (if it Ain’t Got That Swing). Richard Grantham has really gone to town with this fi nal section and given solo opportunities to both fl ugel horn and euphonium. This is a very exciting arrangement and one that I’m sure will Duke Ellington

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 27

BB 26-27.indd 27 17-09-2008 16:38:33 Fri 16 - The Butlins National Mineworkers' Open Mon 19 Jan, 2009 at Butlins Skegness Resort

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Quote: 0845 070 4750 BBMSEP08 www.butlins.com/brassband Open 7 days a week, 9am-9pm or visit your Travel Agent *Price is per person, per break and includes VAT based on 4 people sharing a Silver self-catering accommodation on the break shown. All offers are subject to promotional availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Entertainment is subject to change without notice. For full terms and conditions see the current Butlins brochure. The maximum call charge is 2p per minute from a BT landline. Calls from other networks may vary. Butlins Skyline Limited Registered in England No 04011665. 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL.

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BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 28

BB 28-29.indd 28 17-09-2008 16:35:31 BRASS EDUCATION Durham opens its doors to conductors by John Ward Brass Band At the start of this new academic year, Durham University welcomes applications for its Part- time Conductors Course. Ray Farr is Conductor-in-Residence at the University and founded this Part Time Conducting Course 2008-9 particular project in 2003. The course runs over three Sundays in 2008-2009 and gives students an opportunity to work alongside Ray, a series of special guest lecturers and Fishburn Band in led by: conducting masterclasses. Ray Farr BB spoke to Christopher Evans, now studying for an MA (Brass Band Studies) in conducting at Durham.“ In 2006, I was a part-time professional percussionist and a budding conductor, but 3 weekends during the next academic year. still working as a civil servant,” said Christopher, adding, “I e-mailed Ray Farr immediately after seeing the advertisement for the course, because I wanted a start in brass band conducting.” Theory, practical study and masterclasses He continued: “I found the part-time course to be a wonderful change to previous conducting with Durham University Brass Band in courses and was encouraged to think for myself, and to develop myself, as a musician. Ray Farr Residence- The Fishburn Band was the most unobtrusive mentor that I’d had and made the 400-mile round-trip on a Sunday and guest lecturers. very worthwhile.” Past students have had the opportunity to meet and work with specialists such as Paul Hindmarsh, Kenneth Downie, Elgar Howarth, Roy Newsome, Martin Ellerby, Philip The course will cost £200 and is available Sparke and Bramwell Tovey, and work on a variety of major scores in real detail, something to a maximum of nine conductors. about which Christopher Evans enthused: “The session with Paul Hindmarsh on Contest Music changed my entire perspective on brass band music - amazing!” Deadline is 1 October 2008. Pennine Brass Musical Director, Huw Thomas, also testifi ed to the value of this particular course, and told BB: “In 2006, I attended Durham University’s part-time course, without any real idea For more information and course details please of what to expect.” He elaborated: “I had attended courses and conducted in masterclasses before, but there was a diff erent feel at Ray’s initial morning score study session. This fi rst contact: Ray Farr contact convinced me of Ray’s ability to motivate and challenge his students both musically and 07717 433613 intellectually.” He concluded: “The course works for those taking their fi rst steps into conducting, [email protected] while developing those who are little further on their musical journey. I highly recommend it.” For more details, contact [email protected]

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 29

BB 28-29.indd 29 17-09-2008 16:35:33 WIRELESS BRASS PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

We take every possible precaution to ensure the accuracy of the details given Dr. ROY NEWSOME. PhD, B.Mus, FRCO, ARCM. KEVIN WADWSORTH. Musical Director, Conductor, 17 Belmont Drive, Seddons Farm, Bury, Adjudicator, ABBA. Wheatfield Cottage, Smithy Place, below. However, we cannot be responsible for changes to stated times or Manchester BL8 2HU. Tel. 0161-764 2009. Brockholes, Holmfirth. HD9 7AH. Tel. 01484 666805 (home); running order. 07836 511357 (mobile). GRAHAM O’CONNOR. Conductor, Adjudicator, Band Trainer. E-mail: [email protected] 1 Ralston Croft, Halfway, ROGER B. WEBSTER. 92 Bence Lane, Darton, Barnsley, Friday, 26 September, 2130-2200. BBC Radio 2 Sheffield S20 4TU Tel: 01142 280195 Mobile: 07903 310951E-Mail: [email protected] South Yorkshire. S75 5DA. Tel/Fax 01226 388806. Listen to the Band. Frank Renton presents a session from the 156th Open Brass Band Mobile 07973 157907 MAJOR PETER PARKES. ‘Kamet’, Holme Lane, Rockley, Email. [email protected]. Championships and Gala Concert at Symphony Hall, Birmingham. Retford DN22 0QY. Tel: 01777 839 144 Mobile: 0781 800 6965 MELVIN WHITE. GLCM, LTCL, ARCM, Conductor and LEIGH ANTHONY PHILLIPS. BA Mus. Composer, Arranger. Adjudicator. 25 Sinclair Way, Darenth, Nr Dartford, Kent DA2 Listen to the Band is also available all week via Radio 2’s website www.bbc.co.uk/ Arrangements made by request, especially film music. 7JS. Tel. (01322) 293230 (home). 07802 796630 (mobile). radio2. Click on the playback section to hear the show, on demand, for a week following Sherwood Music, Flat 1, Bolgoed Rd, Pontardulais, Swansea, ROB WIFFIN. OBE, BA, FTCL, LRAM, ARCM, conductor, West Glamorgan, SA4 8JE Tel: 07929 528226, composer, arranger, adjudicator. 5 Cotterell Close, Bracknell, transmission. E-mail: [email protected] RG42 2HL Tel: 01344 301946. E-mail: [email protected] RICHARD PHILLIPS. Dip RCM, ARCM. Conductor, DENNIS WILBY. Conductor and Adjudicator. “Marden” 83 World of Brass Radio. John Maines introduces a weekly one-hour programme of the Adjudicator, Composer, Arranger. 161 Butland Road Lion House Park, Mill Road, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2SE. Oakley Vale, Corby, Northants, NN18 8FN Tel/Fax. (01323) 449083. best of international banding. Commencing on Fridays, the rolling programme of the Tel:Tel: 01536 741447 Mob: (07905) 383645. (Mobile) 07762 889520. most recent four shows can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] of the year on www.worldofbrass.com (then click on the WOB Radio link) or www. STEVE PRITCHARD-JONES. FTCL LTCL DipMusEd G.Mus DR. KEITH M. WILKINSON. 4120 Meadow Knoll Road, LDBBA QTS. Conductor, Adjudicator, Teacher Delaware, OH 43015, USA. worldofbrass.com/wobradio 12 Greenacre Road, Copthorne, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, Tel. 00 1 740 362 4588. Fax. 00 1 740 362 4770. SY3 8LR. Tel: 01743 270489 07834 855064 Email: E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] This week’s programme includes: Household Troops Band of the Salvation Army (John Web: www.stevepritchardjones.com JOHN WINTERFLOOD. ARCM, LGSM, Conductor and Adjudicator. 103 Drove Road, Swindon, Wilts. SN1 3AE Tel. Mott): Olympic Fanfare and Theme (Williams); Black Dyke (Nicholas Childs): The DAVID READ. FLCM, FTCL, LRAM. Conductor and Adjudicator. (01793) 421511. Haunted Halls (Lovatt-Cooper), Tuba Concerto (2nd movement) (Sparke - soloist: Joe 19 Arundel Road, Hartford, Huntingdon, Cambs. PE29 1YW. CHRISTOPHER WORMALD. Conductor, Adjudicator, Tel. (01480) 451252. Cook); National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain (Bramwell Tovey): Little Suite for Arranger, Horn Soloist, ‘Steinbach’ 42 Sandileigh Drive, Sandfield Park, Bolton BL1 8UF. Tel/Fax. (01204) 307555. Brass (Arnold); Grimethorpe (Phillip McCann): Amazing Grace (Newton arr. Himes); JOHN ROBERTS. conductor, adjudicator (Mobile) 07759 236080. (member of ABBA) 17 Belfry Court, Outwood, Wakefield WF1 E-mail: [email protected] British Army Brass Band (David Barringer): Dance Macabre (Saint-Saens); Cory (Robert 3TY Tel 01924 871413 mobile 0773 672 1939 Childs): The Frogs of Aristophanes (Bantock); Grimethorpe (Allan Withington): email [email protected] ORGANISATIONS MacArthur Park (Webb); Brass Band de Bazuin Oenkerk : Sweet Georgia Brown (Pinkard PETER ROBERTS. B.A. (Hons) LRSM Tel. 01977 792120. Mob.07876205212. - soloist: Steve Sykes); European Youth Band (Reid Gilje): Shine as the Light (Graham). BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF CHRISTIAN BANDS ROY ROE. Conductor, Adjudicator, Rienzi, Secretary: Mike Priscott, 370 Bloomfield Rod. Bath BA2 2PD 01225 832041 Local Radio for next week 72 Thorne Grove, Rothwell, Leeds, LS26 0HE. Tel. (01132) 822776 (home). Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Sunday, 21 September, 1905-2000. Sounds of Brass. FM frequencies: Bristol THE ASSOCIATION OF BRASS BAND ADJUDICATORS. 94.9, Cornwall 95.2, Devon 103.4, Gloucestershire 104.7, Guernsey 93.2, PHIL RUSTON. Secretary: C. Brian Buckley, 81 Galbalfa Road, Sketty, Swansea. SA2 8ND. Jersey 88.8, Swindon 103.6, Wiltshire 104.3. Brass Band CDs www.cosbrass.co.uk Tel: 01792 205896 Website: www.abbadjudicators.org.uk Available on the World Wide Web at 1905 British time or at any time for seven days E-mail: info@the colourofspring.co.uk THE BRITISH FEDERATION OF BRASS BANDS. after the broadcast. To hear the programme, access www.bbc.co.uk/devon and click JAMES SCOTT. BA. I Riverbank Road, Lower Heswall, Wirral, National Office, Unit 12, Maple Estate, Stocks Lane, Barnsley, CH60 4SQ. Tel. 0151-342 5190. South Yorkshire. S75 2BL. Tel. (01226) 771015. onto Listen Live or Listen Again. Fax: (01226) 771482. Website: www.bfbb.co.uk NIGEL G. SEAMAN. ARMCM, ARNCM, Conductor, Teacher CHARLES CROSS MUSIC SCHOOL. Correspondence courses Phillip Hunt presents a programme of brass band recordings and news. This week’s and Adjudicator. 3 Garth View, Bedwas, Caerphilly, CF83 8EW. Tel. (02920) 851198 or Mobile. (07779) 329446. in arranging for brass band and BA (Hons) degree foundation edition includes highlights from the 2008 European Brass Band Championships, course. Advanced tuition in all brass instruments. Telephone ROY SPARKES. MISM, TECH(CEI) MIE, Conductor, Tony Evans on (01752) 263069 or 07966 370962. featuring Grimethorpe Colliery (Allan Withington): Mephistopheles (Douglas); Brass Adjudicator, NABBC and ABBA member. Band Willebroek (Frans Violet): Exultate (Downie), Scherzo for Motorcycle and Orchestra 76 Lear Drive, Wistaston, Crewe, Cheshire, CW28DS. EUROPEAN BRASS BAND ASSOCIATION. Tel. 01270-569290. Mobile. 07788 166777. Ulf E Rosenberg, President EBBA (Williams arr. Van der Woude), Saying Goodbye (Sparke), Silver Threads Among the E-mail: [email protected] Mobile 47/92 86 63 00, Tel. O 47/51 50 18 26 Øvre Strandgate 75 Fax O 47/51 89 30 05 Gold (Allison - soloist: Bert Van Thienen); European Youth Brass Band (Reid Gilje): I’ll DENZIL STEPHENS/SARNIA. 12 The Meadows, St. Dennis, N-4005 Stavanger, Norway Not Turn Back (Larsson arr. Bosanko - duettists: Roger Webster and Tormod Flaten); Cornwall. PL26 8DR. Tel/Fax. (01726) 821148. E-mail: denzil. e-mail [email protected] [email protected]. Internet:www.ebba.eu.com Cory (Robert Childs): Brass Blot (Berge). Website: www.sarnia-music.com NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BRASS BAND CONDUCTORS. RAYMOND TENNANT. DRSAM, Dip.NCOS. Conductor and Secretary: Ted Howard, 30 Havant Road, Horndean, Hampshire. Requests and comments are welcome at e-mail: [email protected] Ajudicator. 1 Newark Drive, Paisley. PA2 8NU. Tel. (0141) 589 PO8 0DT. Tel. 023 9259 8162. E-mail: [email protected]. 6466 or 07860 102708 (mobile). NATIONAL YOUTH BRASS BAND of GREAT BRITAIN. Monday, 22 September, 2100-2200. Manx Radio STEPHEN TIGHE. ARCM, MLIA (dip), FPC, LDBBA, Conductor, Philip Biggs, Administrator, 2 The Coppice, Impington, Band Trainer, Adjudicator. 10b Main Street, Clopton, Cambridge, CB4 4PP. Tel/Fax (01223) 234090. Time for Brass. Frequencies 97.2, 89 and 103.7 FM and 1368 AM and Kettering, Northants, NN14 3DO E-mail: [email protected] worldwide on www.manxradio.com Tel: 01832 720505 or 07970 458079 (mobile). Website: www.bandstand.demon.co.uk E-mail: [email protected] Click on Listen FM or Listen AM for the programme at the time of broadcast or on Listen SOUTHERN COUNTIES AMATEUR BANDS ASSOCIATION. Again for a week following transmission. BARRY THOMPSON. Conductor, Adjudicator. Secretary and Contest Manager: Ian Carter, 10 Church Road, 15 Hall Park Avenue, Crofton, Wakefield, West Drayton, Middx. UB7 7PT. Tel: (01895) 420007 E-mail: Ian Cottier presents a programme of brass band music and comment. West Yorks., WF4 1LT. Tel. (01924) 863523. [email protected]

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 1430

BB 30-31.indd 14 17-09-2008 16:31:33 CLASSIFIED Diary Dates Adverts BandsBRITISH man the leading international brass magazine CDs A list of forthcoming events that have been advertised in British Bandsman. The leading international brass band magazine Incorporating Brass Band News, British and International Bandsman SEPTEMBER MIDLAND CD Managing Director 21 - Beaminster. Fairey Band, St. Mary’s Church. We hold one of the world’s largest selections of brass & Trevor Caffull 21 - Pershore. Wychavon Festival Brass and Entertainment Contest. Tel: 01386 870003. military band CDs including most BB-reviewed CDs. Finance Director 27 - Harrogate. National Brass Band Championships – Lower Section Finals, Sections 4 & 3, from Order on-line at www.ukcd.net Gordon Camsey 9.30am, Harrogate International Centre. E-mail: [email protected] Director of Media Tel: 0044 (0) 121 244 4605 or 6 Nicola Bland 27 - Stroud. Leyland Band, Subscription Rooms. Fax: 0044 (0) 121 680 9018 Editor 28 - Harrogate. National Brass Band Championships – Lower Section Finals, Sections 1 & 2, from Kenneth Crookston 9.30am, Harrogate International Centre. Associate Editor 28 - Crawley. Travelling by Tuba, 3.00pm, The Hawth. INSURANCE Professor Philip Wilby 28 - Gateshead. Massed Band Concert with Foden’s Richardson, EYMS, Lockwood and Easington Colliery, Brass Band Features Editor 2.00pm, The Sage Gateshead. Rodney Newton Insurance Services News Reporter 312 High Street, Harlington, Hayes, Tabby Clegg 01422 205231 OCTOBER Middx. UB3 5BT Tel: 020 8759 0825. Fax: 020 8564 9063. Contributors and consultants 10 - London. Zone One Brass (12.00 noon), Boston Brass (2.30pm), Illustrated Talk with Kenneth Peter Wilson Downie (5.00pm), Foden’s Richardson (7.30pm), Regent Hall. THE ORIGINAL SCHEME OFTEN COPIED—NEVER BETTERED Anthony Banwell 10 - London. Enfield Citadel Band with Philip Cobb (trumpet/cornet), 7.45pm, St. John’s Smith Square. Julian Bright Underwritten by Norwich Union 11 - London. National Brass Band Championships Final - Championship Section, 10.00am, Dr. Robert Childs Royal Albert Hall. Iwan Fox Graham Fraser 11 - London. Desford Colliery, 8.00pm, Regent Hall. INSTRUMENTS Chris Helme 18 - Manchester. Chetham’s School of Music Open Day, contact 0161 834 9644. Pat Herak 18-19 - Folkstone. Southern Counties Amateur Bands Association Autumn Own-choice Contest, A selection of good second-hand band and Lt. Col. Graham Jones MBE Leas Cliff Hall. orchestral brass instruments available. Ron Massey 18 - Evesham. Avonbank (Evesham) Brass Band 60th Anniversary Reunion and Evening Concert, contact For details, please telephone 07974 412269 Peter Meechan 01386 761230. Frank Renton 18 - Stroud. Hepworth (Cookson Homes) Band, Subscription Rooms. MUSICIANS Robert Richardson John Stirzaker 19 - Crawley. Minden Band of the Queen’s Division, 3.00pm, The Hawth. David Thornton 24-27 - Prestatyn. Pontin’s 35th Brass Band Championships, Prestatyn Sands Holiday Centre. Carl Woodman 26 - Sedbergh. Masterclass with Owen Farr (horn), 2.30pm, URC Church. Visit Steven Mead’s website: Malcolm Wood www.euphonium.net Editorial NOVEMBER Telephone: 01506 882985 1 - Gateshead. Black Dyke Band, 7.30pm, The Sage Gateshead. Fax: 01506 881596 8 - Nottingham. Sheona White (horn) and Derek Wears (piano) with Nottingham E-mail: [email protected] Display and classified advertising William Booth Memorial Halls Salvation Army Band, 7.30pm, Memorial Halls. Bilton Silver (Rugby) Band John Ward 8 - Stroud. Cory Band, Subscription Rooms. (2nd Section) Telephone: 0113 2707214. 15 - Gateshead. Rochdale Youth Band with special guest Simone Rebello (3.00pm), World of Brass in requires E-mail: [email protected] Concert featuring Brighouse and Rastrick and Stavanger bands (7.30pm), The Sage Gateshead. Eb or Bb bass Accounts 16 - Gateshead. Brass in Concert Championship, 9.30am, The Sage Gateshead. Contact Alister Rowe Hazel Foster Tel: 01543 414004 23 - Crawley. IP Brass, 3.00pm, The Hawth. Telephone: 01933 445442 E-mail: [email protected] Subscriptions and Trade Orders 29 - Perth. Scottish Open, Shield and Cup contests, Perth Concert Hall. Andrew Hall 30 - Perth. Scottish Youth Band Championships, Perth Concert Hall. Telephone: 01933 445442 Typesetting and Artwork DECEMBER Jackfield Band GK Graphic Design VOF 13 - Stroud. Pemberton Old Wigan JJB Band, Subscription Rooms. ( Midlands Championship Section from January 09) Cover price: £1.25 SUBSCRIPTION RATES 12 months 6 months JANUARY requires a Resident Conductor UK £56.00 £30.00 16-19 - Skegness. The Butlins National Mineworkers’ Open Brass Band Festival, Butlins Resort. Europe £75.00 £45.00 Based in Telford , we are looking for someone Please note that day tickets are only available for the Saturday. Rest of the World £115.00 £60.00 with Championship Section banding experience 17 - Stroud. Rothwell Temperance Band, Subscription Rooms. (52 issues per year) to provide musical leadership and direction for 18 - Crawley. The British Army Brass Band, 3.00pm, The Hawth. DIRECT DEBIT (only for subscribers living in the UK) the weekly rehearsals, concerts and preparation 24 - 25 Newark. Newark Brass Festival. One month: £4.85 (saving nearly 10% on the cover price) 12 months: £52.00 (saving for contests. 20% on the price of a weekly copy from newsagents). Contact us for a direct debit form. For more information, please visit: FEBRUARY E-Bandsman - Only available to overseas readers - online edition direct to your desktop. www.jackfieldband.org.uk/conductor.htm 14 - Stroud. Virtuosi GUS Band, Subscription Rooms. £52 per year or £30 for 6 months. You can subscribe to E-Bandsman with a credit or To apply, please send an application with 22 - Crawley. 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BB 30-31.indd 15 17-09-2008 16:31:34 Prima Vista Musikk at World of Brass

Latest publications Brass band best sellers 1. The Dark Side of the Moon (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29764 £49.95 Dream Catchers (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29907 £49.95 2. Vitae Aeternum (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29878 £49.95 Dream Catchers is written in the style of a youth band test piece with lots of jazz 3. Where Eagles Sing (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29699 £34.95 and funk infl uences. The idea behind the piece is that every young musician has a 4. Horizons (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29702 £34.95 chance of ‘catching’ their dreams by performing to as high a standard as they can. 5. The Big Top (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29704 £24.95 In the fi rst and last sections of Dream Catchers, the performers are required to use their technical ability with lots of intricate playing, whereas in the dream-like middle section they play with beauty and style. Best selling solos

Walking with Heroes (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29908 £34.95 1. An Untold Story (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) The idea behind the title is that as humans we remember great people living and and brass band 29751 £24.95 past who have touched our lives and have made a big impact on how we lead our Tenor horn and piano 29745 £14.95 lives; people like our loved ones, family members, friends, religious leaders and 2. The Spellbinding Jewel (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) celebrities. They have either taught us, helped us to understand or lead their lives Tenor horn and brass band 29818 £24.95 by example and, in our eyes, are heroes. We look up to these people and remember 3. ‘Neath the Dublin Skies’ (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) them as heroes. Their spirit and infl uence stays with us wherever we are. Thus, we Euphonium and brass band 29867 £34.95 are ‘Walking with Heroes’. 4. Ar Lan Y Mor (Trad arr. Leigh Baker) Euphonium and brass band 29868 £24.95 5. Caelidh (Rodney Newton) Euphonium and brass band 29874 £24.95 The Light Fantastic (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29909 £34.95 The Light Fantastic was commissioned by Leeds Metropolitan University to use during their promotional presentations whilst on a joint tour of China with the Northern Ballet Orchestra during the 2008 Olympic Games. The music aims to en- capsulate the grandeur and spirit of the Olympic Games whilst also paying homage to the fantastic city of Beijing, host to the 2008 Olympic Games.

Marche Slave (Tchaikovsky arr. Robert Childs) 29910 £49.95 Tchaikovsky wrote Marche Slave in 1876 for a charity concert to support a war effort in the Balkans. He composed and fully scored the march in just 5 days. The themes are loosely based on three Serbian folk songs, each with a quite different character, and it also incorporates the Russian national anthem. At the fi rst performance its impact was such that it had to be encored in full, receiving a tumultuous reception - twice! This arrangement was made for the combined forces of Black Dyke Band and Cory Band for a concert given in Symphony Hall, Birmingham on Sunday 14th September 2008, the performance of which was conducted by the arranger.

Bugeilio’r Gwenith Gwyn (Watching the Wheat) 29875 £24.95 (Trad arr. Gareth Wood) Bugeilio’r Gwenith Gwyn is an 18th century Welsh love song known to many by its English title of Watching the Wheat. Although the song describes a tragic love affair, the music remains extremely popular with musicians throughout Wales. This skilful new setting for euphonium and brass band by Welshman Gareth Wood was commis- sioned by Robert and Lorraine Childs and given to their son David as a 26th birthday present.

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