The Scottish Brass Band Association has announced the brace of composers who have been commissioned to write the set works for the 2014 European Brass Band Championships in Perth.

New commissions

With funding from Creative Scotland, SBBA have commissioned renowned classical composer and Professor of Composition at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Rory Boyle, to create the set test for the Championship event, whilst the emerging ‘B’ Section contenders will be faced with a work from the pen of talented young composer and bass trombonist Josiah Walters.

The announcement came as part of a presentation which updated attendees at the recent SBBA Annual Conference on the exciting plans for what is to be called the European Festival of Brass 2014, and which will involve bands and communities across the whole of Scotland in outreach projects and performances as part of a nationwide celebration of brass music.

Eminent

Andrew Duncan, Development Manager for SBBA told 4BR: “SBBA is delighted that we have been able to engage such an eminent composer as Rory Boyle to write a major work for brass band for the very first time."

He added: "The Championship set work is without doubt the musical centrepiece of the European Brass Band Championship, and I’m certain that Rory's new work will prove to be a significant contribution to the brass band repertoire.

It will be the crowning glory of the European Festival of Brass 2014 and will go on to serve as a legacy of the event for years to come."

The Championship set work is without doubt the musical centrepiece of the European Brass Band Championship, and I’m certain that Rory's new work will prove to be a significant contribution to the brass band repertoireAndy Duncan

Young talent

Andy was also excited about the prospect of one of Scotland’s emerging young compositional talents being given the opportunity to write for the event too: "Josiah is already a prolific composer bringing many new ideas into his writing for brass band, and I’m sure he will produce an exciting and innovative new work for the bands to play."

He concluded: "I’m looking forward to working closely with both Rory and Josiah over the next year as their new works progress."