Composer and conductor Simon Dobson is taking a well earned break to enjoy ‘A Brave New World’ in more ways than one.

The Cornishman is taking the opportunity to write a major composition based on the famous Aldous Huxley novel, by soaking up the sights and sounds of Australia.

Opportunity

Simon told 4BR that he has been itching to translate the book into music for many years, and the trip to Australia has given him the perfect opportunity to realise his ambition.

"It’s an amazing novel – and so relevant to today’s society. It’s a dark, dystopian view of a future world, which I hope to bring to life by reading it again on my travels, although Australia will provide a perfect present day contrast I’m sure!"

It’s a dark, dystopian view of a future world, which I hope to bring to life by reading it again on my travels, although Australia will provide a perfect present day contrast I’m sure!Simon Dobson

Delighted

The new work, which will be written in both brass and wind band form, has been commissioned to be used at a major Swiss competition, something which the composer is delighted about.

"It’s a real boost to a composer’s confidence when they are allowed free reign to explore such personal interesting musical avenues. It gives me real latitude to explore, create and be innovative – something that the novel itself yearns for."

Madness

In the meantime, Simon hopes to take in some skydiving (‘a truly frightening experience!’) as well as visit some old banding friends in all corners of the country.

"I’m looking forward especially to visiting Jason Katsikaris in Sydney, Brisbane XLCR, Kew Band in Melbourne and friends in Perth, so I hope to cram in plenty of fun into my trip too," he said.

The break will also give the composer a chance to re-charge his batteries after a hectic few months in the UK, which saw him work with Tredegar Band and conduct Mount Charles at the Grand Shield, put down the first tracks of his forthcoming solo album, finish off a saxophone and flute quartet and still have enough time to record a few sessions with the iconic pop group Madness and up and coming hip-hop group Granville Sessions.

Hectic

"It’s been hectic to say the least," he laughed. "Working with Tredegar and Mount Charles has been great, whilst the Madness thing was simply amazing – what a great group of musicians."

Simon knows that this break may be the last chance he gets for a while though to enjoy a bit of relaxations, as on his return a number of composing and conducting projects are already inked in.

"I’m looking forward to working with Tredegar again, as well as returning back to Belgium and Norway once more. I’d better make the most of enjoying myself when I can then!"