The world premiere performance of Paul Lovatt Cooper's 'The Final Journey' in Leeds on the weekend has created a remarkable, as well as deeply moving response.

100 years to the day

Performed by Black Dyke under Prof Nicholas Childs as part of the Black Dyke Festival, and made possible through a commission by Bolsover District Council, the work commemorated 100 years to the very day, the sinking of HMS Hampshire and the loss of over 650 lives — including that of Secretary of State for War, Lord Kitchener (above) and a number of seaman and engine stokers from the Bolsover area of Derbyshire.

Although the work was performed in the presence of Kevin Stewart, one of the remaining relatives of the mere 12 survivors from the disaster, it became known on the day that others, both in the Black Dyke band and the audience had a link to the events that took place on 5th June 1916.

We have since had others who have got in touch to tell us of their family connection. It's such an emotive story and has such a powerful resonance even a century after it occurredFestival spokesperson

Amazed

"It was incredible,"a festival spokesperson told 4BR. "On the day we found out that one of the members of Black Dyke had a great, great uncle who lost his life.

However, during the interval we were approached by a gentleman who told us that he had come to enjoy the concert as a fan of Black Dyke, only to then be totally amazed that a piece commemorating the sinking was being played. He said that his uncle had lost his life as stoker on board HMS Hampshire.

We have since had others who have got in touch to tell us of their family connection. It's such an emotive story and has such a powerful resonance even a century after it occurred."

Congratulations

Simon Benger from the Arts Council of England was in the audience at Leeds Town Hall to also hear the British premiere of the Edward Gregson 'Cornet Concerto', commissioned by his organisation, and later told 4BR: "It was a wonderful concert with such a powerful work at its centre and wonderful music such as the 'Cornet Concerto' to accompany it.

My congratulations go to all those who took part in bringing it to fruition."