Paul Lovatt-Cooper has told 4BR that he is looking forward to hearing every performance of his test piece, ‘Breath of Souls’ at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend, despite the criticisms that have been aired about his work from some quarters in the lead up to the contest.

Response

However, the composer says its something he has got used to over the past few years.

"The response I’ve had from those people who have listened to the piece has been fantastic," he said.

"I know the players have found it hard – but it is a Nationals test piece to find the Champion Band of Great Britain. I’m fully aware my music does attract criticism, and I know I can’t please everyone, but if the audience like it on Saturday then I think I’ll be more than happy."

Critics

Paul also told 4BR that he was also aware that some critics have questioned his decision to visit a number of competing bands in the past few weeks.

"I’ve been to a visit number of bands at their invitation – and enjoyed meeting them and discussing the work. I just wish I were able to have been able to take up all the invitations I received.

Right from the launch in July, I’ve made myself available to anyone who wanted to discuss the piece with me."

Inspiration

He added: "I had no input into the performance process with any of the bands – the MDs approach is sacrosanct, but it was an ideal opportunity to discuss with them the inspiration behind the work."

Paul told 4BR that he does hope that the inspiration behind ‘Breath of Souls’, will see all competing bands play to his written instructions – the non-use of mutes included. "I wrote the piece with no mutes and believe the work should be performed without them."

I know the players have found it hard – but it is a Nationals test piece to find the Champion Band of Great BritainPaul Lovatt-Cooper

No discussions

The composer also told 4BR that he would not be having a pre-contest discussion with the three adjudicators – a decision also confirmed by Philip Morris of Kapitol Promotions.

"The opinion of the judges on the performances is the one that counts – not mine," Paul said. "I have the greatest of respect for David Read, Rob Wiffen and Luc Vertommen – and the job they have to do on Saturday."

Philip Morris told 4BR: "I can confirm that the composer will not have any pre-contest meetings or discussions with the three adjudicators – a decision agreed by everyone concerned."

Important

Paul knows that Saturday is going to be a very important day – although he hopes to be able to meet as many people as possible, especially at his PLC trade stand at the Albert Hall.

"I will get down to the stand before the start of the contest and at the halfway break. We have plenty of great music on show – and signed study scores of ‘Breath of Souls’. It’s going to be such an exciting day – I just can’t wait."