It’s been one heck of a busy week for Paul Lovatt-Cooper, as the last seven days has seen him fly from one National Youth Band course in England to another in Scotland, conduct masterclasses and enjoy performances of his music, including a new world premiere.

New commission

Paul had been commissioned by the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain to compose this year's featured work for the National Children's Band.

Entitled 'Festiva Brazilia', Paul told 4BR that it takes it’s inspiration from the exciting Latin music which features strongly in the colourful samba festivals held each year in Rio de Janiero.

"The piece is full of South American style trumpet passages, ensemble hooks and riffs and is a lively 'feel-good' work for the players to enjoy," he said.

"It uses many varied samba rhythms and styles and also requires the whole band to perform a Samba with percussion instruments."

Rio holiday

Paul visited the National Children's Band in Derby to conduct an enjoyable masterclass on his new work.

He added: "Looking at the smiles on the faces of the players, I’m sure a few will be asking their parents if next year’s family holiday will be to Rio!"

Samba bug

Course Director Dr Nicholas Childs was also bitten by the samba bug it seems: "Paul has received more commissions from the Children's Band than any other composer, simply because his music has so much appeal to the performers. You can see why when you look and hear how eager they are to play the music. Everyone enjoys a bit of samba."

The work formed part of the band’s programme at their course concert on Saturday afternoon, with Paul’s challenging 'Island Whirl' also featured.

Scottish visit

The week also saw Paul making his final appearance as guest conductor with the National Youth Band of Scotland after a successful and highly enjoyable two-year tenure.

Directed by Neil Cross, the course in Fife was once again led by Richard Evans who was also joined by international trumpet soloist Rex Richardson.

It’s been a real pleasure working with both organisations, and always leaves me feeling inspired. The talent of the players is amazing, and would like to thank the National Youth Band of Scotland all the very best for the futurePLC

Breath of Souls

The quartet worked with the NYBBS Senior, Reserve and Children's Bands during the week also delivering enjoyable masterclasses on composition, performance and jazz. Paul also gave an invaluable insight to his forthcoming National’s test piece, 'Breath of Souls'.

The bands performed Paul’s ‘Wall of Sound’, ‘The Big Top’, ‘Island Whirl’ and ‘Only For You’, with the latter two pieces featuring guest soloist Rex Richardson.

Sue Richards, the wife of the late Goff Richards was also a most welcome special guest on the course. In the concert Paul conducted Goff's 'Oceans', dedicating it to his widow.

Inspired experience

Paul told 4BR that the youth band experiences in England and Scotland had made a lasting impression:

"It’s been a real pleasure working with both organisations, and always leaves me feeling inspired. The talent of the players is amazing, and would like to thank the National Youth Band of Scotland all the very best for the future."

Later this coming week, Paul’s busy schedule concludes with an appearance as special guest on ‘Listen to the Band’.

Frank Renton talks to Paul about his latest best selling album 'Only For You' as well as ‘Breath of Souls’.