Results
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£29.50Eden (Score Only)
This work was commissioned by the Brass Band Heritage Trust as the test piece for the final of the 2005 Besson National Brass Band Championship, held at the Royal Albert Hall, London.The score is prefaced by the final lines from Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost (completed in 1663), in which Adam and Eve, expelled from Paradise, make their uncertain way into the outside world:"...The world was all before them, where to chooseTheir place of rest, and providence their guide:They hand in hand with wandering steps and slow,Through Eden took their solitary way."My work is in three linked sections. In the first, the characters of Adam, Eve and the serpent guarding the Tree of Knowledge are respectively represented by solo euphonium, cornet and trombone. The music opens in an idyllic and tranquil mood and leads into a duet between euphonium and cornet. Throughout this passage the prevailing mood darkens, though the soloists seem to remain oblivious to the increasingly fraught atmosphere. A whip-crack announces the malevolent appearance of the solo trombone who proceeds to engage the solo cornet in a sinister dialogue.The second section interprets the Eden story as a modern metaphor for the havoc mankind has inflicted upon the world, exploiting and abusing its resources in the pursuit of wealth. Though certainly intended here as a comment on the present-day, it is by no means a new idea: Milton himself had an almost prescient awareness of it in Book I of his poem, where men, led on by Mammon:"...Ransacked the centre and with impious handsRifled the bowels of their mother earthFor treasures better hid. Soon had his crewOpened into the hill a spacious woundAnd digged out ribs of gold."So this section is fast and violent, at times almost manic in its destructive energy. At length a furious climax subsides and a tolling bell ushers in the third and final section.This final part is slow, beginning with an intense lament featuring solos for tenor-horn, flgel-horn and repiano cornet and joined later by solo baritone, soprano cornet, Eb-bass and Bb-bass.At one stage in the planning of the work it seemed likely that the music would end here - in despair. Then, mid-way through writing it, I visited the extraordinary Eden Project in Cornwall. Here, in a disused quarry - a huge man-made wound in the earth - immense biomes, containing an abundance of plant species from every region of the globe, together with an inspirational education programme, perhaps offer a small ray of hope for the future. This is the image behind the work's conclusion and the optimism it aims to express is real enough, though it is hard-won and challenged to the last.John Pickard 2005
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£99.95Malcolm Arnold Variations (Score and Parts)
MALCOLM ARNOLD VARIATIONS was commissioned by Philip Biggs and Richard Franklin for the 20th All England Masters International Brass Band Championship held in the Corn Exchange, Cambridge on 25 May 2008. The work is dedicated to Anthony Day, long time carer of Sir Malcolm Arnold in his final years. I first met Malcolm and Anthony in 1990 and remained in constant touch until Malcolm's passing in 2006. Anthony, of course, remains a friend and plays his own role subliminally in this piece. The work is not based on any of Malcolm Arnold's own themes, rather it is a portrait of him (and by association Anthony Day) through my eyes and as a result of my friendship with both parties over some 18 years. If there is any theme as such it is the personalities of the players, the protagonist and his carer placed together by my own efforts coloured and influenced by aspects of Arnold's style and technique without recourse to direct quotation but through allusion and parody. It is of course designed as a brass band test piece but in my eyes is first and foremost a musical challenge. The pyrotechnical elements are there but always secondary to the musical thrust of the work's structure. I have long beforehand submerged myself in Malcolm Arnold's music and ultimately delivered this tribute. Music Directors will be advised to acquaint themselves with the composer's personal music, particularly the film scores, symphonies, concertos and ballets: the solutions towards a successful interpretation of my piece are all in there - and YES, I want, and sanction, this piece to be interpreted, and therein lies the challenge for those of you 'up front'! The challenge for players is that of virtuosity, ensemble and careful attention to where they are individually in relation to their colleagues - a question of balance, taste and insight. With regard to tempi, as is my usual custom, I have indicated all metronome marks with the prefix circa. I would suggest that the fast music is played at these tempos but that the more rubato moments can be allowed some freedom in expression and fluidity of line. With regard to the type of mutes to be employed - this decision I leave to the discretion of players and conductors. Structurally the work is cast as an Introduction, 20 Variations and a Finale. Some variations are self contained, others run into each other as sequences in the same tempo. In other variations, segments are repeated and developed. I could describe the overall concept as a miniature ballet or a condensed film score - there is much drama and character and the repeated elements assist this in driving the action forward. I have deliberately avoided the more extremely dark qualities of Malcolm's own music in this, my celebration of this master-composer, as I have always viewed (and evidenced by my previous Masters scores Tristan Encounters and Chivalry) that the Cambridge contest is a 'sunshine- affair' and firmly believe that Malcolm Arnold would have had it no other way too!
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£49.95Malcolm Arnold Variations (Score Only)
MALCOLM ARNOLD VARIATIONS was commissioned by Philip Biggs and Richard Franklin for the 20th All England Masters International Brass Band Championship held in the Corn Exchange, Cambridge on 25 May 2008. The work is dedicated to Anthony Day, long time carer of Sir Malcolm Arnold in his final years. I first met Malcolm and Anthony in 1990 and remained in constant touch until Malcolm's passing in 2006. Anthony, of course, remains a friend and plays his own role subliminally in this piece. The work is not based on any of Malcolm Arnold's own themes, rather it is a portrait of him (and by association Anthony Day) through my eyes and as a result of my friendship with both parties over some 18 years. If there is any theme as such it is the personalities of the players, the protagonist and his carer placed together by my own efforts coloured and influenced by aspects of Arnold's style and technique without recourse to direct quotation but through allusion and parody. It is of course designed as a brass band test piece but in my eyes is first and foremost a musical challenge. The pyrotechnical elements are there but always secondary to the musical thrust of the work's structure. I have long beforehand submerged myself in Malcolm Arnold's music and ultimately delivered this tribute. Music Directors will be advised to acquaint themselves with the composer's personal music, particularly the film scores, symphonies, concertos and ballets: the solutions towards a successful interpretation of my piece are all in there - and YES, I want, and sanction, this piece to be interpreted, and therein lies the challenge for those of you 'up front'! The challenge for players is that of virtuosity, ensemble and careful attention to where they are individually in relation to their colleagues - a question of balance, taste and insight. With regard to tempi, as is my usual custom, I have indicated all metronome marks with the prefix circa. I would suggest that the fast music is played at these tempos but that the more rubato moments can be allowed some freedom in expression and fluidity of line. With regard to the type of mutes to be employed - this decision I leave to the discretion of players and conductors. Structurally the work is cast as an Introduction, 20 Variations and a Finale. Some variations are self contained, others run into each other as sequences in the same tempo. In other variations, segments are repeated and developed. I could describe the overall concept as a miniature ballet or a condensed film score - there is much drama and character and the repeated elements assist this in driving the action forward. I have deliberately avoided the more extremely dark qualities of Malcolm's own music in this, my celebration of this master-composer, as I have always viewed (and evidenced by my previous Masters scores Tristan Encounters and Chivalry) that the Cambridge contest is a 'sunshine- affair' and firmly believe that Malcolm Arnold would have had it no other way too!
Estimated dispatch 7-14 working days
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£19.95Where is Elvis? for Brass Band - Paul Saggers
Where Is Elvis? takes inspiration from one of the most enduring mysteries in popular culture: the speculation surrounding the death - and possible survival - of Elvis Presley. Written as a theme and variations, the piece begins by presenting an 'Elvis' theme before moving through a series of imagined scenarios, each drawn from well-known conspiracy theories.The journey starts with the story most often told: that Presley died in his bathroom, a reminder of the tension between fame and vulnerability. From there, the music explores the idea of mafia involvement, evoking the shadowy narrativesthat surround celebrity life. The next variation leaps into the fantastical, imagining Elvis abducted by aliens and transported beyond earthly bounds. This is followed by a more domestic theory: Elvis living quietly as a gardener at Graceland, hidden in plain sight. Another variation considers claims that he became a Christian pastor, suggesting a turn toward redemption and spiritual renewal. A reflective section then acknowledges the inevitability of loss while questioning whether cultural memory ever truly fades. The work then revisits the glittering mythology of Las Vegas, acity forever linked to Presley's legend, before moving to the notion of a secret island in the South Pacific - a utopian escape from fame.Finally, the piece closes with the idea that Elvis lives on through the airwaves, his voice continuing to shape the soundscape of popular culture.
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£49.95Vivaldi's mission to Saturn on a dog named Bongo for Brass Band - Paul Saggers
Using material from Antonio Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, this programmatic work depicts the following story:The year is 2024, Earth has been invaded by a group of evil organists called 'The Buxtehudarians', wiping out most of mankind. However, a secret group of highly intelligent dogs have defrosted the composer Antonio Vivaldi who was cryogenically frozen by the Vatican society of music for obedient dogs. Their chief dog leader 'Bongo' who over years of listening to the music of Vivaldi has gained the ability to fly, is set to undertake a mission to Saturn to obtain the golden Bassoon with which to defeat the tyrannical Buxtehuderians. With Vivaldi firmly mounted on Bongo they take off, entering full dog overdrive and breaking through the many satellites and second-hand saxophones that surround the earths atmosphere. As they fly through space, Vivaldi sadly gets distracted by a drunken trombonist and becomes separated from Bongo. Bongo now summons his musical ability to perform Vivaldi's second movement of Spring from the Four Seasons on a glockenspiel stored at the international space station, enticing Antonio back on their mission. They finally arrive at Saturn and swiftly grab the golden Bassoon, returning to Earth with a thump. Their mission is complete! But can they defeat those pesky organists?Time will tell...Duration: 7'30Difficulty: 5.5/6
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£40.87A Carol Rhapsody (Brass Band) Geoffrey Nobes
Capture the mystery, wonder, and joy of the festive season with A Carol Rhapsody (Geoffrey Nobes). This dynamic and brilliantly orchestrated medley weaves together a selection of much-loved Christmas carols, balancing timeless audience favorites with beautiful, lesser-known melodies. Perfect as a centerpiece or finale for your festive concert, this rhapsody provides an engaging musical journey that highlights the full tonal palette of your band.Thoughtfully scored with accessible range demands, standard time signatures, and comfortable keys, A Carol Rhapsody is exceptionally approachable. It serves as an ideal performance piece for 4th Section bands and above, as well as Youth and Training Bands looking for a rich, full-sounding festive work. Higher-section bands will also appreciate its quick rehearsal turn-around during a busy Christmas season.The Musical JourneyAtmospheric Opening: The piece begins with an evocative introduction, featuring subtle echoes of Coventry Carol and Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.Rhythmic & Bright: The tempo shifts into a lively rendition of the old French folk carol O Leave Your Sheep, cleverly interwoven with motifs from Joy to the World and the sweeping refrain of Angels from the Realms of Glory.A Lush, Lyrical Heart: The centerpiece of the work is an extended, beautifully textured setting of another French folk carol, Whence Is That Goodly Fragrance. This section serves as a wonderful showcase, passing the melody throughout various sections of the ensemble in turn.Triumphant Finale: The pacing accelerates into a joyful romp through the traditional English carol I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing in. Excitement builds through a series of key changes, weaving several themes together before culminating in a triumphant Glory to the New-born King - complete with the ringing bells of Ding, Dong! Merrily on High echoing across the band.To view a rolling score video of this piece please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYehd0CGaA8Duration: approx. 6.30 minutesDifficulty Level: 4th Section +This PDF download includes the full score and parts.Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or https://satradecentral.org (USA)Instrumentation:Soprano Cornet EbSolo Cornet Bb1st Cornet Bb2nd Cornet BbFlugel Horn BbSolo Horn Eb1st Horn Eb2nd Horn Eb1st Baritone Bb2nd Baritone Bb1st Trombone Bb2nd Trombone BbBass TromboneEuphonium BbBass EbBass BbPercussion 1-3
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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£37.15Enduring Faith (Brass Band) Andrew Wainwright
Enduring Faith was commissioned by Christopher Ward and the Five Lakes Silver Band and is a lyrical work for brass band that explores the intersection of hope, resilience, and conviction. Designed with a focus on melodic clarity and expressive phrasing, the composition moves through a series of nuanced emotional shifts - ranging from quiet, reflective passages to moments of expansive lyricism and affirmation.The harmonic structure travels through several keys, serving as a musical metaphor for the changing seasons of life. Throughout the piece, the texture is enriched by featured soloists from across the ensemble, including flugel horn, cornet, euphonium, baritone, and trombone.This work is dedicated to Doug and Stephanie Bayne, long-standing members of the Five Lakes Silver Band, in recognition of their commitment to their community and their steadfast support of the ensemble. It was recorded by the Five Lakes Silver Band on their 2025 album, Legacy.To view a video of the Five Lakes Silver Band performing the work please visit https://youtu.be/84NU_OXMs3YDuration: Approx. 5.30 minutesDifficulty Level: 3rd Section +This PDF download includes the full score and parts.Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or https://satradecentral.org (USA)Instrumentation:Soprano Cornet EbSolo Cornet BbRepiano Cornet Bb2nd Cornet Bb3rd Cornet BbFlugel Horn BbSolo Horn Eb1st Horn Eb2nd Horn Eb1st Baritone Bb2nd Baritone Bb1st Trombone Bb2nd Trombone BbBass TromboneEuphonium BbBass EbBass BbTimpaniPercussion 1-2
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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£33.43Hope (Brass Band) Nathanael Watchorn
Hope is a deeply reflective and uplifting work for brass band, shaped by themes of serenity, renewal, and spiritual hope. Composer Nathanael Watchorn revisits a melody and harmonic framework originally conceived for an unrealised project - material that, even at its inception, carried the gentle strength and stillness of a benedictory chorus. Sensing its innate sense of calm and assurance, Watchorn sought to give the music new life through words that would illuminate its emotional core.Those words came from his father, Major Julian Watchorn, whose poetic text - titled Benediction: The Hope of Christ - speaks of grace, love, joy, and the sustaining power found in Christ. The verses provide a clear spiritual lens through which conductors, performers, and listeners alike can experience the music.Whether heard as a musical benediction or a stand-alone concert work, Hope provides a meaningful and deeply moving moment of stillness amid the noise of modern life.To view a video of Regent Hall Band performing the work please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=489X1cwPYi0&list=RD489X1cwPYi0&start_radio=1Duration: approx. 3.00 minutesDifficulty Level: 3rd Section +This PDF download includes parts and score.Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or https://satradecentral.org (USA)Instrumentation:Soprano Cornet EbSolo Cornet Bb1st Cornet Bb2nd Cornet BbFlugel Horn BbSolo Horn Eb1st Horn Eb2nd Horn Eb1st Baritone Bb2nd Baritone Bb1st Trombone Bb2nd Trombone BbBass TromboneEuphonium BbBass EbBass BbTimpaniPercussion 1-2
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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£48.30Perspectives from Gallipoli (Brass Band) Fendall Hill
This powerful and evocative work by Australian-New Zealand composer Fendall Hill pays tribute to the ANZAC soldiers who passed through Weymouth, Dorset during World War I. Inspired by first-hand accounts, the piece follows the emotional journey of a young soldier - from eager enlistment, through the harrowing Gallipoli campaign, to recovery and reflection in Weymouth.Structured in four movements, the music captures anticipation, fear, fierce resistance, and eventual healing, culminating in a moment of remembrance. The hymn tune Wareham -written by Dorset composer William Knapp - features prominently as a thematic thread, honouring the region's historical connection to the ANZAC legacy.A deeply moving addition to the brass band repertoire, this work is both a musical narrative and a heartfelt gesture of gratitude to the people of Dorset for their care and ongoing commemoration of the ANZACs.To view a performance of the work featuring ANZAC Brass please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=diz9TRz7rwEDuration: approx. 8.00 minutesDifficulty Level: 1st Section +PDF download includes parts and score.Sheet music available at www.brassband.co.uk (UK) or https://satradecentral.org (USA)Instrumentation:Soprano Cornet EbSolo Cornet BbRepiano Cornet Bb2nd Cornet Bb3rd Cornet BbFlugel Horn BbSolo Horn Eb1st Horn Eb2nd Horn Eb1st Baritone Bb2nd Baritone Bb1st Trombone Bb2nd Trombone BbBass TromboneEuphonium BbBass EbBass BbTimpaniPercussion 1-3
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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£29.72Beaufort Fanfare (Brass Band) Friedrich Gattermann
Beaufort Fanfare, by German composer Friedrich Gattermann, is a dynamic and vibrant musical work inspired by the Beaufort scale, a system for estimating wind speeds. Originally composed for brass ensemble and percussion, it was created to showcase Orchestral Tools' Beaufort Brass sample library, recorded at the iconic AIR Studios in London. Here it has been set for brass band.A central element of Beaufort Fanfare is its exploration of musical density. The piece begins with a single motif and gradually builds in complexity and richness, reflecting the increasing strength of the wind. As it progresses, the music intensifies, with the development of density playing a crucial role in conveying the evolving character of the elements.Through intricate brass harmonies and rhythmic drive, Beaufort Fanfare captures both the awe-inspiring beauty and raw power of nature. More than just an auditory experience, this composition takes the listener on a journey through the elements, celebrating the force of wind in all its forms.To view a rolling score video of the work please visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdiIIERMSDYDuration: 2.15 minutes approx.Difficulty Level: 1st Section +PDF download includes parts and score.Sheet music available from www.brassband.co.ukInstrumentation:Soprano Cornet EbSolo Cornet 1-3 BbSolo Cornet 2-4 BbRepiano Cornet Bb2nd Cornet Bb3rd Cornet BbFlugel Horn BbSolo Horn Eb1st Horn Eb2nd Horn Eb1st Baritone Bb2nd Baritone Bb1st Trombone Bb2nd Trombone BbBass TromboneEuphonium BbBass EbBass BbTimpaniPercussion 1-3
In Stock: Estimated dispatch 1-3 working days
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