*
banner

Newton makes a buzz with new euphonium concerto

New Zealand euphonium star Byron Newton gives premiere of a new concerto by composer Anthony Ritchie in Wellington.

Byron Newton
 

Euphonium soloist Byron Newton has just given the premiere of a brand new work by renowned New Zealand composer Anthony Ritchie.

'Buzz' as he is known around the banding world, performed his 'Concerto for Euphonium' in Wellington accompanied by the dual New Zealand and Australian National Champion Band, Wellington Brass.

Original works

The concert also featured original brass band works by New Zealand composers, including John Ritchie (Anthony's father), Dean Goffin, Kenneth Young, John Rimmer and Thomas Rive.

Wellington's Musical Director and Principal Trombonist of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, David Bremner was featured in the premiere Anthony Ritchie's 'Clouds'.

Commission

The concerto is Ritchie's second major work for the instrument, following his earlier 'Triptych for Euphonium and Piano' which was commissioned by Newton for his final Masters recital at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in 2012 — for which he received the first ever 100% mark.

The concerto, which is in four movements was commissioned by the former Tredegar euphonium star with the help of Creative NZ — the Arts Council of New Zealand4BR

Creative NZ

The concerto, which is in four movements ('Noir', 'Scherzo', 'In Memoriam', 'Dance') was commissioned by the former Tredegar euphonium star with the help of Creative NZ — the Arts Council of New Zealand.

A wind band arrangement of the concerto will also be premiered by Byron in June with the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band.

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    


Black Dyke Band

Marshall leads with Evo

October 9 • The Black Dyke principal cornet player will lead Black Dyke Band's National title challenge on his new Oldroyd Evo cornet.


NYBBWales

Closing date looms for National Youth Brass Band of Wales auditions

October 9 • Young Welsh players who wish to represent their brass banding nation still have time to book an audition date.


Besses

Besses welcome new principal cornet

October 9 • Danny Riley has become the new principal cornet at Besses o' th' Barn Band.


Mining

Blidworth to help celebrate proud mining heritage

October 9 • The sound of a brass band will return to the site of the former Clipstone Colliery as Blidworth Welfare Band helps celebrate a proud mining heritage.


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

October 8 • Our community band is meeting again 11am Monday 13th after completing our first gig.. We would love you to join us.We are a band of mixed abilities and welcome ALL players.. Blowing with us will not impact on your own band and its all free.


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Alan Duguid

BA (Hons), PGDipMus, PGCE
Conductor, Composer, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd