*
banner

Balsom inspires high tide in Bristol

A brand new fanfare to herald the start of the Bristol Prom season has been picked by a panel of musical experts including Alison Balsom and Philip Harper.

Alison Balsom
 

Cory MD Philip Harper has helped to choose the new fanfare that will be used to open the 2015 Bristol Proms season next week.

At the Top of the Tide

Entitled 'At the Top of the Tide' by composer David Mitcham, it is believed to be the first official 'Fanfare' for a UK city, and will premiered across several iconic Bristol landmarks.

The competition was launched by trumpeter Alison Balsom (above) in March and attracted 40 entries that were eventually assessed by Alison alongside a panel of leading artistic personalities from the city and the Cory MD.

Winning entry

The winning entry was inspired by what the composer called 'Bristol's inextricable links to the sea' and its inaugural performance at Bristol Old Vic will herald the start of Bristol Proms 2015, which runs from 27th July — 1st August.

As well as his fanfare becoming the first official fanfare for a UK city, David Mitcham also won £1,000, whilst his composition will also be broadcast on Classic FM in addition to the live performances.

I hope the fanfare represents the rich diversity of Bristol, its maritime and industrial heritage as well as being a celebration of the spirit of the city and the energy it will carry into the futureComposer, David Mitcham

Thrilled

The composer, who has worked extensively for the BBC Natural History Unit based in Bristol told 4BR: "I'm thrilled that 'At the Top of the Tide' has been chosen to open Bristol Proms 2015.

I hope the fanfare represents the rich diversity of Bristol, its maritime and industrial heritage as well as being a celebration of the spirit of the city and the energy it will carry into the 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    


Friary

Taken and Friary reach last chord in partnership

December 21 • The two and a half year musical partnership between Nigel Taken and Friary Brass will come to an end later this month.


Brighouse

The Floral Dance remembered...

December 21 • You can relive the time when the Brighouse & Rastrick Band very nearly pipped Paul McCartney to the Number 1 spot on Top of the Pops this Christmas.


rncm

RNCM Appeal boosts student opportunities

December 21 • More students will be set to benefit from the success of the RNCM Annual Appeal.


Brass Monkeys

Podcast: The Brass Monkeys — Episode 21

December 21 • The North Walian trio link up with a member of the Welsh banding diaspora in New Zealand


Garforth Brass - Strawberry Fields Primary School

Friday 5 December • Garforth Methodist Church,. Church Lane,. Garforth,. Leeds LS25 1NW


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 6 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF12 0JZ


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band Christmas Event

Saturday 6 December • Petworth Town Centre GU28 OAD


Haverhill Silver Band - Family Christmas Concert

Sunday 7 December • Castle Manor Academy, Haverhill CB9 9JE


Petworth Town Band - PetworthTown Band Christmas Concert

Saturday 13 December • St Mary’s Church Petworth GU28 OAD


wantage silver band

December 17 • . Wantage Concert Brass (First Section) are looking to fill the positions of Solo Euphonium, First Baritone and Bass Trombone ASAP. Rehearsals are on Tuesday and Friday, 7:30-9:30pm, led by their dynamic MD Daniel Hall..


Banks Brass Band

December 16 • Merry Christmas from Banks Brass Band, a friendly non-contesting Band near Southport. We are looking for experienced players to strengthen our euphonium, trombone and bass rows. Rehearsals: Mondays 8.00-9.30 in the Hub@Banks community centre, PR4 8BL.


Cambrian Brass

December 15 • We are a hard-working, positive and welcoming brass band, proudly inclusive and open to players of all experience levels. As we prepare for the forthcoming Regional Championships, we currently have a vacancy for a Solo Cornet player.


David A. Stowell


Conductor and composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd