There was a wonderful concert in memory of the brass banding career of the great Major Peter Parkes in Oldham last weekend.

Just a day after the Whit Friday march contests, a large and appreciative audience came to the Queen Elizabeth Hall to revel in memories, anecdotes and thrilling music making — all in celebration of one of the truly iconic conductors of the brass band movement.

Joined forces

In the presence of his widow, Birgit, son's Christopher and Jonathan and close family (above), a band of over 50 players joined forces to perform works synonymous with 'The Major', who died in 2011.

The concert was conducted by Garry Cutt, Derek Broadbent and David Hirst, with the current Fairey MD reflecting on what was a truly memorable occasion when speaking with 4BR:

"It was such a privilege to conduct this celebration event,"Garry Cutt said. "The response of players from all over the banding world to take part and pay their musical respects shows the incredibale esteem that everyone held 'The Major' in."

Unprecedented success

Although Major Parkes is primarily remembered as the conductor of Black Dyke during a period of unprecedented contesting success from 1975 to 1989, his contribution to other bands such as Grimethorpe, Fairey, Whitburn, Reg Vardy and Desford — as well as further afield with the likes of Brass Band Treize Etoiles amongst others, saw players as well as brass band lovers make the trip to Greater Manchester.

Unique

Garry added: "Peter was unique. He had a fantastic manner and such a huge personality and charisma when in front of a band. His record on the contest platform speaks for itself — as well as the quality of the many outstanding recordings and concerts he led.

We could have filled the stage twice over with the players who wished to pay their musical respects. He made such an impact on so many people's lives that they just wanted to say thank you."

Peter was unique. He had a fantastic manner and such a huge personality and charisma when in front of a bandGarry Cutt

Broadcast

4BR understands the concert will be broadcast on BBC Radio Leeds' Yorkshire Brass later this year by the event compere, David Hoyle.

Image courtesy of Michael Kennedy