DOCTOR OF MUSICAL ARTS PERFORMANCE PORTFOLIO ...

fugato. The vitality of the music is maintained as this almost multi-instrument
concerto comes to a brilliant climactic conclusion.
Musicfor a Festival was commissioned by the Arts Council of Great Britain
to celebrate the Festival of Britain in 195 1. The first performance was held at the
Royal Festival Hall in London on 14th May 195 1, performed by the Massed Bands of
the Brigade of Guards and the Fanfare Trumpeters of the Royal Military School of
Music, Kneller Hall, under the baton of Major Meredith Roberts.
The general structure of the composition is an alteration of movements
between brass choir and full band; the brass with added percussion, mainly timpani,
plays the odd numbered movements. The writing for brass instruments calls on their
several resources; brilliance, fullness, and at times delicacy, as well as chorale style.
The sections for band are written in a refreshing vein and serve as a contrast. The
suite is classically reminiscent both in arrangement
and style.
There is an interesting comment in the composer's hand on the front page of the score
thatreads:
'The trumpet and trombone group should be as numerous as possible. Yhe
work was designedfor the 'Kneller Hall Trumpets, which consist of50 Trumpets and
Trombones. Yhe Military Band should also be as large as possible. ne best effect
would be obtainedfrom Massed Bands especially if a really large body of Trumpets
and Trombones
is availablefor the interludes. For indoor use smallerforces will be
adequate down to 7 Brass players and a band of25 - 30'.
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