Martin Ellerby’s new composition ‘Electra’, will be used as the set work for the 160th British Open Championship at Symphony Hall later this year.

Elektra chord

In an interview with 4BR, the composer says the work is, ‘...loosely based on the play by Sophocles. The ‘Elektra Chord’ provides the signature chord and motivic elaboration used by composer Richard Strauss to represent the eponymous character of his opera Elektra.’

Support

The work, which is the first the composer has written for the event, has been commissioned jointly by the British Open and the Netherlands Brass Band Championship, and comes at a time when the Open has been boosted by the news that Besson will continue with its sponsorship support.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "We are all aware of the difficulties involved in organising brass band competitions in the current economic climate, and we value the investment that Besson continues to make in a number of areas, including our own contests, to support the British brass movement.

We look forward to our ongoing association with the Besson brand, and working with Lyndon Chapman and Sylvie Irvoas."

In performance it is played without a break though clearly linked by the common denominator of the chord that has driven it from the opening barsMartin Ellerby

Approach

According to Martin, “There are three clear sections enabling development and a symphonic approach to writing. In performance it is played without a break though clearly linked by the common denominator of the chord that has driven it from the opening bars.”

Lust, Lament and Death

The three sections to the work are subtitled, ‘Lust for Revenge’ which is a highly charged element with an ensemble approach to the writing; the lyrically inspired ‘Laments’ where all the key solos occur and the musical language exploits the more poetic properties of the chord, and the final ‘Dance to Death’ which represents a return to rhythm as the main driving force.

Martin added: "The proportions of the work are crucial to the overall effect and this is the challenge to the conductor. We are now in the 21st century and yet this work is derived from a 20th century chord over a classical dramatic inspiration."

Final decision

He concluded: 2This piece is mine for you and ours for all – I have tried to give of my best in the knowledge that audiences will make a final decision on its longevity."

Martin Ellerby has dedicated the piece to Stan and Shirley Kitchen, ‘in appreciation of the support that they have given to me, both through Studio Music and their friendship for which I remain most grateful.’