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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."

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