The Swiss Army Brass Band recently performed the world premiere of ‘Symphonic Suite for Brass Band’ by young British composer, Nic Mills, in Vicques, Switzerland.

Diggle

Nic, aged 20, is studying at Huddersfield University and is a percussionist in Diggle Band, conducted by James Shepherd.

The 25 minute work was originally written in 2010 for large orchestra, and through publishers Musikverlag Frank, the Swiss Army Brass Band showed a keen interest in playing it, and asked Nic to transcribe it for brass band.

The 25 minute work was originally written in 2010 for large orchestra, and the Swiss Army Brass Band showed a keen interest in playing it, and asked Nic to transcribe it for brass band4BR

Four movements

The suite comprises of four movements: ‘Forces of Nature’, ‘The Setting Sun’, ‘Remembrance’ and ‘Finale’.

‘Forces of Nature’ formed part of Nic’s A-level composition project in 2008 and is composed in a cinematic/TV style, influenced by many film composers, whilst the ‘The Setting Sun’ is very minimalistic in content.

‘Remembrance’ is dedicated to his late grandmother who passed away in 2008 and incorporates many of her favourite musical tunes. The fast paced ‘Finale’ requires virtuosic playing and stamina with a grandioso ending in the style of Shostakovich.

Critical acclaim

The Swiss Army Brass Band recently performed the work in concert, gaining critical acclaim from both the audience and critics in turn.