An original work for brass band from the pen of the talented student composer Stephen Richardson was declared the winner of the 2012 Salford University/Kirklees Music Award.

Strong entries

The entries for the 10th annual competition submitted by the composition students at the University made for a close run affair, with Stephen’s ‘Ascension’ coming out on top of the very strong seven entries.

Highly commended were ‘Living Prayer’ by Kanae Tauchi and ‘The Journey of St. Cuthbert’ by Aaron Wolfe.

Performance

The University Brass Band directed by Performance Director, Dr. Howard Evans prepared the ensemble for the concert in front of the music jury, which included Graham and David Horsfield from Kirklees Music.

‘Ascension’ will be included in the Salford Collection, the ever-growing section of the Brighouse-based publisher’s 2012 catalogue.

‘Ascension’ will be included in the Salford Collection, the ever-growing section of the Brighouse-based publisher’s 2012 catalogue4BR

Excellence

Some of the other entries will also be considered for inclusion — an indication of the quality of the work which is being produced at this top centre of excellence for brass and wind band students.

The presentation after the performance of the work will be made to Stephen at a Concert in Peel Hall on Wednesday 2nd May at 7.00pm.

Performed

The work will also be performed by Wardle Anderson Brass and Musical Director Sean Conway in the Gala Concert of the Brighouse Festival of Brass on Saturday June 30th.

Entries:

The list of entries this year was as follows:
Ascension: Stephen Richardson
A Hero’s Dream: Michael Poplawski
Caledonia: Dhani Miller
Living Prayer: Kanae Tauchi
Strength and Grace: Mee Kee Poon
The Flame of Hope: Simon Oliver
The Journey of St. Cuthbert: Aaron Wolfe