Exciting and original solo works for brass and percussion soloists
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Ave Maria by Bach/Gounod is a popular setting of the well-used Latin text and was originally published in 1853 as Méditation sur le Premier Prélude de Piano de S. Bach. The piece consists of a melody by the French Romantic composer Charles Gounod that he superimposed over a very slightly changed version of the Prelude No. 1 in C major from J.S. Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, written 137 years earlier. Gounod improvised the melody, and his future father-in-law Pierre-Joseph-Guillaume Zimmermann transcribed the improvisation and in 1853 made an arrangement for violin (or cello) with piano and harmonium. In 1859 the setting was published with the familiar Latin text. This arrangement features the tenor horn and was commissioned for Sheona White and the Brighouse and Rastrick Band to perform at the 2017 Brass in Concert Championships by their conductor Dr David Thornton, at which Sheona won the prize for best tenor horn. It was subsequently adapted into versions for B flat solo instruments (euphonium, tenor trombone or baritone) and with percussion accompaniment only.
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At last…..it’s published! On the 50th anniversary of its premiere at the Royal Festival Hall, London, Edward Gregson's Concertante for Piano and Brass Band, the work that launched the composer’s career in the brass band world is now finally published. Having been withdrawn from public performance in the 1980s the work has remained unavailable until now. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore a new genre. From its dramatic opening Prelude, to its tender and lyrical Nocturne, and the final rhythmic and joyful Rondo, this eighteen minute work is an exhilarating showcase for both pianist and brass band.
This 50th anniversary release is a very welcome publication that should prove highly attractive to both performers and audiences. A master musician has revisited his youth and resurrected a gem for all to savour and enjoy! - Ronald W. Holz, The Brass Herald, August 2018