On April 10th Nelson Brass Academy will give the world premiere of ‘Riffs ‘n Ructions’ by John Rimmer.

Commission

The piece was commissioned by SOUNZ (the centre for New Zealand Music) to help the Academy celebrate their 5th year of existence.

The piece will feature as part of a 45 minute recital from the Academy bands (including the Nelson Junior Brass Band, Lake Rotoiti Band, and National Youth Champions, Nelson Vivace Youth Brass).

Fifth Year

As we enter our fifth year of existence its really nice to be able to celebrate our fifth birthday with a piece written especially for us...Nick Sharpe, Nelson Academy Director.

Academy Director Nick Sharpe said, "As we enter our fifth year of existence its really nice to be able to celebrate our fifth birthday with a piece written especially for us, it’s certainly very exciting for me and the players to be able to give a world premiere! The fact that the piece is for every player in the Academy to play also makes it very special, it’ll be a very full stage!"

Description of the Work

The composer, John Rimmer, describes the piece:

"Riffs 'n Ructions" is a fun piece for brass band. As the title implies repeated rhythmic patterns (riffs) are subjected to interruptions (ructions).

In the fast sections the percussion section provides the ructions. In the first slow, lyrical section a quintet of instruments is interrupted by loud chords from the larger band.

The piece is rhythmically charged with quasi- ragtime patterns contrasted by dramatic textures. In the latter repeated regular rhythmic patterns are disturbed by irregular ones.

"Riffs 'n Ructions" opens out on two occasions for improvisations by the solo cornet and solo euphonium. Both players are asked to improvise on previous rhythmic ideas.

This work was created with support of the Centre for New Zealand Music (SOUNZ) Community Commission.”

A player's perspective

Sophie Price, repiano cornet of the Nelson Vivace Youth Brass Band said of the piece, “Riffs and Ructions’ is a great piece. It is perfect for youth band as it is challenging, however it will be played really well after lots of practice!

It has a funky and catchy tune that keeps appearing throughout the piece. ‘Riffs and Ructions’ has quirky parts in the middle and a change of rhythm leading up to the end which keeps you entertained.

This piece has opportunity for every member of the band to show off their skills and at the same time it's enjoyable to play!”

The recital will take place at the Nelson School of Music on Sunday April 10th at 2pm, entry will cost $5 per adult with children gaining free entry.