*
banner

At Her Majesty's pleasure

A new brass band work has made its way to Buckingham Palace to help Her Majesty celebrate her 90th birthday...

Thomas Brown
 

Amongst the plethora of 90th birthday gifts received by the Queen this year, one musical present came from former BBC Inspire Young Composers' Competition winner, Thomas Brown (above).

Yon Green Garden

Although currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, Thomas is a native of Holmfirth in Yorkshire and was asked by the local Parish Council if he would be interested in composing a piece of music to mark the occasion. He is currently a member of Kirkintilloch Band.

'Yon Green Garden — Music for a Royal Celebration' was the result and quotes the famous Holmfirth anthem 'Pratty Flowers' (from which the title is taken) as well as the 'Hallelujah Chorus' from Handel's 'Messiah' — rumoured to be one of the Queen's favourites.

Hade Edge

Together with school friend and University of Surrey Tonmeister student, Jamie Philokyprou and played by Hade Edge Band (where he began to learn the cornet 15 years ago) they recorded the work which has now been delivered to Buckingham Palace.

It was also performed on 1st May at the Parish Chairman's Civic Luncheon in Holmfirth, and the recording of the music played at a special party held in honour of 90 year old local residents.

Its blend of modern and traditional themes seemed a very fitting tribute to the changes seen by the tea party attendees and Her Majesty over the last 90 yearsHolmfirth Parish Council spokesperson

Fitting tribute

A council spokesperson told 4BR: "It was wonderful to hear a new piece created by a local musical talent. Its blend of modern and traditional themes seemed a very fitting tribute to the changes seen by the tea party attendees and Her Majesty over the last 90 years."

Jamie Philokyprou added: "Working with Thomas proved to be an exciting project. The contrasting textures in the music required careful consideration, both in the production and the actual recording session. It was a pleasure to work with a fun and hospitable team, all local to the Holme Valley."

Recording

The recording of the piece can be heard at the following web address:
https://soundcloud.com/thomasbrown-3/yon-green-garden-music-for-a-royal-celebration

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    


4BR podcast

4BR British Open preview

September 2 • Join us on air on Wednesday evening to give us your views and opinions ahead of the 171st British Open Championships at Symphony Hall.


British Open

New additions to prize list at British Open

September 2 • The new champion will bag a record cash prize whilst a new cornet award adds to the individual accolades on offer at Symphony Hall this weekend.


Alexander Richter

Richter award for pioneering brass band advocacy

September 2 • Alexander Richter has been presented with the prestigious Eitelfriedrich-Thom Award.


Ashley DIXON

Ashley's life affirming donation

September 2 • The Foden's baritone player Ashley Dixon has donated her life giving stem cells to help a father of two children.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Cross Keys Silver Band

September 2 • We're looking for a 2nd Trombone player to join a strong section in a 2nd Section band based in South Wales. We have a number of community engagements and contests lined up for the rest of the year and into 2026. Rehearsals are from 19:30 on Tuesdays.


Stephen Phillips

MA, BA (Homs), PQSI, NPQH, PGCE
Conductor, Band Trainer, Educator, Compere


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd