The brass section of the Central Band of the Royal Air Force is launching a new musical initiative in the coming weeks with their ‘Ensemble a la mode’ group.

New works

Created by SAC Jonathan Pippen as a vehicle for the performance of accessible contemporary music, the group will focus primarily on performances of brand new works for ensembles smaller than their Symphonic Wind Band.

And on the 19th April they will provide their first 40 minute lunchtime recital programme featuring works by Pete Meechan, Adrian Clifford and Bill Connor.

Showcase

Jonathan told 4BR: "Pete Meechan’s ‘Storm’ was written for me to showcase a fiery display of rhythmic intensity, scored for accompaniment by brass quintet.

Adrian Clifford's ‘O Pastor Animarum’ will sit beautifully in the sacred setting of the RAF's spiritual home St Clement Danes where the concert takes place, and pushes the boundary of pianissimo playing for individuals and the ensemble."

He added: "In addition ‘A Worm Heads South’ is almost a test piece! Technique is pushed for all the musicians and the ensemble playing is tested over and over and over again. This is a piece written for listeners to enjoy and players to endure!"

Smaller venues

Jonathan hopes that the launch will see the players of the Central Band of the Royal Air Force showcase their talents in smaller venues around the country, with plans already underway to help the community which uses St Clemant Danes commemorate the anniversary of its near destruction in the London Blitz.

"It presents an opportunity all of us could not resist. My colleagues are superb musicians and it gives us all a buzz to be able to work on projects that can help local communities in a way that makes great music written for brass much more accessible."

My colleagues are superb musicians and it gives us all a buzz to be able to work on projects that can help local communities in a way that makes great music written for brass much more accessibleJonathan Pippen

Members

The group includes Ben Godfrey, Andrew Lofthouse, Jonathan Truscott, Josh Hayward, Jonathan Pippen and Andrew Keegan, whilst their first recital concert will take place at St Clement Danes (on the Strand opposite the Royal Courts of Justice) on April the 19th from 1:10 — 1:50pm.

Jonathan added: "There is no entry charge and any donations given will be used in support of the RAF Church, St Celment Danes, which in turn looks after the spiritual needs of the men and women within the service."