*
banner

Taylor made Bestowal celebrates royal trophy

A brand new tenor horn concerto with a royal connection has been given a thrilling world premiere in Cornwall recently by Lowenna Taylor.

Lowenna
 

The 100th anniversary of the presentation of the only brass band trophy to have the official seal of royal patronage has been commemorated by the recent premiere of a tenor horn concerto in Cornwall.

Commissioned

‘Bestowal of a Century’ was commissioned by Lowenna Taylor, and was funded through her Harry Mortimer Trust award which she was presented with at the 2013 British Open Championship following the completion of her studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music in Cardiff.

Written by her friend and fellow Cornish expat Christopher Bond (pictured together with the Royal Trophy), the 15 minute work received its world premiere at the Cornwall Youth Band end of course concert in Newquay at Christmas.

1913 presentation

The ‘Bestowal’ refers to the presentation of the Royal Trophy by the then Prince of Wales (who also happens to be the Duke of Cornwall) to the famous West of England Bandsman’s Festival in Bugle in 1913.

Over the years it has been won by some of the greatest names in brass banding, including Black Dyke and Munn & Feltons — although more recently it has become a wonderful open festival that includes sections for local bands as well as visitors from all over the banding globe.

Heritage

“Having grown up taking part in the contest, I wanted to give something back and celebrate my Cornish heritage,” Lowenna told 4BR. “The trophy is unique, so to celebrate its 100th anniversary with the concerto seemed the best way I could do it.”

Lowenna also knew the right person to compose the concerto for her — and Chris was delighted to write the demanding work to showcase his great friend’s talents.

Wonderful player

He told 4BR: “Lowenna is a wonderful player and she gave me free rein! Having played together in the Cornwall Youth Band, I knew just what would work, so there are little motifs and themes of the contest and of Cornish music, but most of all it is a work that showcases a fabulous player.”

The performance of the concerto also coincided with the news that the famous trophy will once again receive direct royal support, as the current Prince of Wales has agreed to become the Festival’s patron once more.

The performance of the concerto also coincided with the news that the famous trophy will once again receive direct royal support, as the current Prince of Wales has agreed to become the Festival’s patron once more4BR

Special

“That made the premiere even more special,” Lowenna added. “My mum helped to get the ball rolling on regaining the royal support for the contest, so to be able to give the performance of the concerto knowing that was a great thrill.”

Chris and Lowenna now hope that the work will be taken up by other leading tenor horn players, with the possibility of it being recorded in the near future.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Gareth Brindle

Brindle replaces Baker for Elland Area challenge

December 18 • The experienced Gareth Brindle will take Elland Silver Band at the Yorkshire Regional Championships following teh departure of Brett Baker.


Yamaha Clinic

Yamaha stars inspire European youth

December 18 • The latest weekend of Yamaha Young Band Clinics saw stars Arfon Owen, Margie Antrobus, Russell Gray and Armin Bachmann inspire players in Heerenveen and Utrecht.


French

Celebration and competition for bands at French National

December 18 • 17 bands will compete at the 20th anniversary French National Championships in Metz in February.


Eagley

Eagley bring festive spirit to Bolton

December 18 • There was literally no room in the hall for Eagley Band's 'Bing to Buble' recent Christmas Concert.


Longridge Band - Christmas Concert

Saturday 7 December • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HJ


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 7 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF120JZ


Enderby Band - Broughton Astley Rock Choir

Friday 13 December • Thomas Estley Community College. 2 Station Road. Broughton Astley. Leicestershire LE9 6PT


Bedford Town Band - Bedford Town Band Brass Academy

Saturday 14 December • Putnoe Heights Church MK418EB


Newstead Brass - Christmas Showcase 2024

Saturday 14 December • St Wilfrid's Church, Church Street, Kirkby in Ashfield NG17 8LA


Dobcross Silver Band

December 14 • Looking for a new challenge in the New Year? . Dobcross Silver Band is a progressive and Successful 3rd section band on the lookout for a competent SOLO BARITONE PLAYER. If you are a team player you fit perfectly! Really enjoyable rehearsals here!


Boarshurst Silver Band

December 14 • Boarshurst Silver Band, NW Championship Section, requires a talented BBb Bass Player. Under MD Jamie Prophet, the band have an ambitious and varied calendar for 2025, including NW Area, Spring Festival and Whit Friday


Besses o'th' Barn Band

December 12 • Due to a change of circumstances. The band now require one front row cornet and two back row cornets to complete our line up for the North West Area Contest in Blackpool..


Prof. Christopher Houlding

MMus, GGSM, LRAM
Conductor, Performer, Educator


               

 © 2024 4barsrest.com Ltd