Results
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£35.00
Epitaph (for Hillsborough) - Peter Meechan
Epitaph (for Hillsborough) was written on the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough stadium disaster, April 15 1989, in memory of the 96 victims. All of the victims were fans of Liverpool Football Club, the club I have supported since I was a young child.The disaster unfolded in front of the BBC television cameras, and due to the importance of the match (FA Cup semi final), millions, including myself, witnessed it first hand, leaving a lasting impression in the public psyche.Several features of the piece were determined by the tragedy. The length of the piece, 6 and a half minutes, represents the minutes of the game that were played that day (The match was abandoned after 6 minutes), and the final thirty seconds of the work, where the band gently applaud, is a reference to the first match played after the tragedy, a European Cup semi final between AC Milan and Real Madrid.After 6 minutes, the referee blew his whistle and all the players stood still where they were, both sets of fans applauded in memory of the perished, and the fans of AC Milan began singing Youall Never Walk Alone, the anthem of Liverpool Football Club.The work also features 96 strikes of the tubular bells, in memory of each person who lost their life.Epitaph is dedicated to the 96 people who died that day, and to their families whose fight for justice is an inspiration to all.
Estimated dispatch 12-14 working days
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£80.00St. Magnus - Kenneth Downie
Dedicated to Alastair Massey, an inspirational music teacher. Commissioned by the Scottish Brass Band Association for the 2004 European Brass Band Championships in Glasgow. This music is a set of variations on the tune known as St Magnus, which is attributed to Jeremiah Clarke. Most people will associate it with Thomas Kelly's hymn which begins: "The Head that once was crowned with thorns is crowned with glory now". The tune is very simple, consisting of just two, four-bar phrases. Neither is there much in the way of rhythmic variety, every note being a crotchet with the exception of two quavers, and the last note in each phrase. Within such a simple structure, however, lies considerable strength. THEME The listener is given the opportunity of hearing it twice, in full, at the beginning, starting with one player but soon taken up by the full ensemble. It returns in the middle of the music and is stated again near the end. This has been done quite deliberately in the hope that there will be an appreciation of what material is being developed, by the listener as well as by those with access to the score, who are able to see the visual connections. VARIATION 1 This takes the rhythm of the last part of the theme and also uses the shape of the opening as a recurring figure. The mood is whimsical and skittish, with short, teasing rhythmic figures tossed around the band, and quick interplay with percussion, at a fast tempo. An energetic flourish finishes this variation before the Andante espress. VARIATION 2 This commences with chords related to the opening of Variation 1. The cantabile on solo comets establishes a new, lyrical mood and there is scope for expressive playing in a series of short solo passages. The theme works its way unobtrusively into the texture before a reprise of the solo cornet melody and some more lyrical interchanges between Eb bass, euphonium, flugel horn and comets. The variation ends serenely with clear references to the last phrase of the theme. VARIATION 3 The first idea to dominate is clearly linked to the shape of the theme's first phrase. There is a frenetic feel to much of this variation, with considerable energy and instability created by extensive use of cross-rhythms. A thinning-out of the score marks a clear change to development of the start of the second phrase of the theme. This proves to be short-lived however, and the opening material returns leading to a restatement of the theme, "Maestoso," after which a euphonium cadenza links to Variation 4. VARIATION 4 Here we have some solos for euphonium, cornet, trombone and Eb bass set against a background of horns and baritones presenting a pensive statement of the theme's opening. VARIATION 5 This commences Allegro, with lively work for cornet and euphonium spreading to the whole band before attention focuses on the beginning of the second phrase of the theme which is initially presented in diminution, then in regular rhythm, then in inversion. An increase in tempo coupled with a decrease in volume, requires dexterity and control, with several metrical challenges thrown in for good measure. The same fragment of phrase becomes an ostinato which generates a frenzied climax, punctuated by short, dramatic silence, before the opening figure returns and the music gradually winds down. The tubular bells herald the final return of the theme, in augmentation, marking the start of the Finale. FINALE This features the running semiquavers of the previous variation sounding in counterpoint. A fast, furious coda speeds the work to a conclusion while references to the opening of the theme are still trying to break into the texture of the music. Kenneth Downie
Estimated dispatch 5-14 working days
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£89.95Four Etudes (Brass Band - Score and Parts) - Gregson, Edward
This work was written during August and September 2016. In it, I wanted primarily to explore the elements of timbre, rhythm, texture and colour. The first three tudes (or studies) are based on a set of piano pieces I composed in 1982, whilst the last, the longest of the set, was composed specially. My reference point was the Four tudes for orchestra of 1928 by Stravinsky, a work I have always admired, and of which the first three also happen to be based on a set of earlier pieces, in his case for string quartet, with the last being a re-arrangement of a work for pianola. I have also borrowed the titles he gave to the individual studies as they seemed to fit the mood of my pieces.However, the exception is the final study, where instead of the exuberant mood of his colourful portrayal of Madrid, mine was influenced by the terrible human tragedy that was unfolding in Aleppo at the time I was writing it, and thus reflects the violence and barbarism of those events; yet towards the end it does offer a glimmer of hope for humanity with a return to the Canticle (Song) of the first study, and concludes quietly with the chords and bells that began the work. The titles of the tudes are Canticle, Dance, Excentrique, and Aleppo. Like Stravinsky's, the set is relatively short, lasting around 8 minutes.The Four tudes were commissioned by Black Dyke Band and were written specially for the recording marking the conclusion of my year as Composer-in-Residence. The concert premiere will be given by Black Dyke Band, conducted by the composer, at the RNCM Festival of Brass in January 2017.- Edward GregsonDuration: 8.00
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£37.95Four Etudes (Brass Band - Score only) - Gregson, Edward
This work was written during August and September 2016. In it, I wanted primarily to explore the elements of timbre, rhythm, texture and colour. The first three tudes (or studies) are based on a set of piano pieces I composed in 1982, whilst the last, the longest of the set, was composed specially. My reference point was the Four tudes for orchestra of 1928 by Stravinsky, a work I have always admired, and of which the first three also happen to be based on a set of earlier pieces, in his case for string quartet, with the last being a re-arrangement of a work for pianola. I have also borrowed the titles he gave to the individual studies as they seemed to fit the mood of my pieces.However, the exception is the final study, where instead of the exuberant mood of his colourful portrayal of Madrid, mine was influenced by the terrible human tragedy that was unfolding in Aleppo at the time I was writing it, and thus reflects the violence and barbarism of those events; yet towards the end it does offer a glimmer of hope for humanity with a return to the Canticle (Song) of the first study, and concludes quietly with the chords and bells that began the work. The titles of the tudes are Canticle, Dance, Excentrique, and Aleppo. Like Stravinsky's, the set is relatively short, lasting around 8 minutes.The Four tudes were commissioned by Black Dyke Band and were written specially for the recording marking the conclusion of my year as Composer-in-Residence. The concert premiere will be given by Black Dyke Band, conducted by the composer, at the RNCM Festival of Brass in January 2017.- Edward GregsonDuration: 8.00
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£85.00Three Haworth Impressions (Brass Band - Score and Parts) - Langford, Gordon
A wonderful three movement suite which conjures up fabulous musical imagery of the lands of northern England. Well worth including as a concert item in your next programme, but this great original composition should really should be set again as a test-piece soon - rewarding musically for audience and bandsmen alike.Includes:TOP WITHENS - A GENERAL EVOCATION OF THE ATMOSPHERE OF WUTHERING HEIGHTS The sinister opening motif symbolises the influence of the evil Heathcliffe, Soon this motif experiences several changes of character in order to portray emotions other than those of hatred and jealousy. The overall mood is, however, one of gloom and foreboding.THE THREE BELLS This is a reference to the pseudonyms adopted by Ann, Charlotte and Emily Bronte. The music begins with three "bell"-notes; Ab for Acton Bell, Cb for Currer Bell and Eb for Ellis Bell, and these three notes form the basis of a wistful waltz tune. Again the mood is rather sombre -- save for a brighter middle section -- and the opening motif from "Top Withens" is to be heard, again symbolising the frustrations and ill-fortune by which their lives were plagued.THE WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY The Brontes were not the only people in Haworth and not all is desperation and gloom. The third impression is a celebration of the victory of the people of Haworth in their fight to retain their railway. The nine-eight rhythm of a slow train is prominent, and our once-sombre motif is transformed into a triumphant fanfare.Duration: 12.00Please note that there are only 3 solo cornet parts included in this set
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£16.00
Three Haworth Impressions (Brass Band - Score only) - Langford, Gordon
A wonderful three movement suite which conjures up fabulous musical imagery of the lands of northern England. Well worth including as a concert item in your next programme, but this great original composition should really should be set again as a test-piece soon - rewarding musically for audience and bandsmen alike.Includes:TOP WITHENS - A GENERAL EVOCATION OF THE ATMOSPHERE OF WUTHERING HEIGHTS The sinister opening motif symbolises the influence of the evil Heathcliffe, Soon this motif experiences several changes of character in order to portray emotions other than those of hatred and jealousy. The overall mood is, however, one of gloom and foreboding.THE THREE BELLS This is a reference to the pseudonyms adopted by Ann, Charlotte and Emily Bronte. The music begins with three "bell"-notes; Ab for Acton Bell, Cb for Currer Bell and Eb for Ellis Bell, and these three notes form the basis of a wistful waltz tune. Again the mood is rather sombre -- save for a brighter middle section -- and the opening motif from "Top Withens" is to be heard, again symbolising the frustrations and ill-fortune by which their lives were plagued.THE WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY The Brontes were not the only people in Haworth and not all is desperation and gloom. The third impression is a celebration of the victory of the people of Haworth in their fight to retain their railway. The nine-eight rhythm of a slow train is prominent, and our once-sombre motif is transformed into a triumphant fanfare.Duration: 12.00Please note that there are only 3 solo cornet parts included in this set
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£30.00Janacek's 'Taras Bulba' - Janacek
Comments from Tim Paton, the arranger of Janacek's 'Taras Bulba': "I will never forget the day in 1967 when I was introduced to the music of Leos Janacek, a Czech composer born in 1854, who died in 1928. Janacek was little known in Britain until the 1960's, when the conductor Charles Macherras introduced his unique music. I heard a recording of Macherras conducting the Pro Arte Orchestra in a performance of Janacek's "Sinfonietta".It was in 1969 that I first heard Janacek's Symphonic Rhapsody, "Taras Bulba".Janacek's music is exciting, powerful, emotive, impassioned and unpredictable.I have taken the first and third movements of this piece, and adapted them for Brass Band, which was at times extremely difficult, but rewarding. It sometimes took up to an hour to be satisfied that a mere several bars had been reproduced to convey the composer's intentions.The Death of AndriThe Cossaks, under the leadership of Taras Bulba, are fighting against the Poles in the 17th century. Taras's son Andri seeks to rescue his love, a Polish princess, from a city which is being besieged by the Cossaks. Having found her, he throws in his lot with the Poles, but is finally captured by his father, who executes him as a traitor before riding off again to battle.Prophesy and Death of Taras BulbaTaras himself is finally captured and condemned to be nailed to a tree and burned alive. As the flames creep around him, Taras has the satisfaction of seeing histroops escape, and as he dies, sees a vision of his country freed at last.This is incredibly descriptive music. The mood is constantly changing, creating feelings of love and anger, celebration and melancholy, despair and triumph.This Brass Band EditionThe duration of the original symphonic rhapsody, three movements, is approximately 23 minutes. I chose the first and third movements, so the Brass Band edition is approximately 14 minutes. The main reason is twofold: Being realistic about the demands this music would place on the stamina of the brass player; Keeping the piece less than 15 minutes, so that, if desired, it could be used on the contest platform.Two unique qualities of Janacek's music had to be taken into account when preparing this brass band version. His compositional technique was individual, at times not sticking to traditional expectations, in both form and orchestration. I imagined what the genius himself would have said looking at my work, and how to tackle a particular section to emulate his original intentions. This was particularly the case when dealing with high woodwind and violin parts, the use of tremolo in string parts, and the orchestral harp.Percussion: Janacek included timpani, side drum, cymbals, triangle and tubular bells. For reasons stated previously, I have also included xylophone and glockenspiel. I have also added the gong in a couple of places to enhance the dramatic effect of the music.
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 3-5 working days
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£125.00
New London Pictures - Nigel Hess
New London Pictures represents elements of London in the 21st Century. The Millennium Bridge describes the pedestrian's journey across this wonderful new landmark bridge over the Thames, starting at the imposing Tate Modern, crossing the busy river, and onwards to St. Paul's Cathedral with its bells ringing out over the great city. London Eye is an incredibly large ferris wheel situated on the South Bank of the River Thames. This movement depicts a 'flight' on this riverside wheel, at the top of which the panoramic view of London is breath-taking and the expanse of the music is a suitable depiction of the view. As with all modern cities, London is over-crowded with motor vehicles. London is the first major city in Europe to adopt a Congestion Charge, and this piece (with its stop and go traffic lights) is both racy and comical. Here are Londoners attempting to go about their business in the face of overwhelming odds.....Brass Band Grades 4/5: Premier Youth and 2nd SectionDuration: 15 minutes
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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£29.95Dream Sequence - Jonathan Bates
DURATION: 3'00". DIFFICULTY: 3rd+. Composed for Strata Brass in 2020 as part of their COVID-19 induced, virtually recorded 'A Christmas Carol' (a new suite for brass bandlasting around 30 minutes in total), 'Dream Sequence' is an ethereal texture-driven work relying heavily on the use of tuned percussion to create a dreamy layer of sound within which the band intersperse. In the context of the story, this work is used to set the scene of Scrooge drifting to sleep, contemplating his ways before the visit of the 3 ghosts later that evening. The 2 Christmas carols utilised in this work are 'O Come Emmanuel' and 'Carol of the Bells'. .
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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£30.00Reminiscing Dance - Brass Band - LM983
COMPOSER: Chris AllenReminiscing Dance is the most traditional of all the brass band works I have written so far, but it contains beautiful melodies that should appeal to most audiences. The piece is similar in nature to 'The Three Bells',the central movement of Gordon Langford's Three Haworth Impressions, and is inspired by rural imagery and the idea of a widow recalling their precious experiences with their loved one. The general mood of the piece is one of happiness tinged with wistfulness and longing, beginning with a lilting,but not jolly triple time melody in the soprano cornet.This melody gives way to a more jovial tune at bar 56 which can afford to be played with more humour and freedom, but at bar 86 the atmosphere should darken again, with a subdued dynamic and smoother articulation.At bar 114, the upbeat music of the opening returns but bolder than before, to represent a feeling of anger that the opportunity to spend cherished time with a loved one has been stripped away by death. An intense countermelody in the euphoniums and baritones grinds painfully against the main tune in the cornets, before a soft close that suggests ultimately the dominant emotion of the piece is one of happy memories rather than loss.Chris Allen, December 2021
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 3-5 working days
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