*
banner

Smoke Sketches sets imaginations alight at Salford

The new work by young composer Daniel Hall certainly made a huge impression on performers and audience alike at the National Youth Championships — and you can hear why too.

wARDLE
  The breathtaking winning performance was made by Wardle Academy Youth Band

The outstanding winning performance by Wardle Academy Youth Band of composer Daniel Hall's new composition, 'Smoke Sketches', has been officially recorded by Paul Hindmarsh, Consultant Editor Faber Music Ltd, at the recent National Youth Championships of Great Britain.

Visions and images

'Smoke Sketches' is an 8 minute work that takes its inspiration from the art of divination — interpreting visions and images from the smoke of an open fire, and was used as the set-test in the Intermediate Section.

The three movement work, comprising sections, 'Into the Blaze', 'A Lonesome Ember' and 'Spark of Light', was written specifically for the event, but is also already being seen as one that could easily be used at Fourth Section level with its energetic jazz and blues character.

Inspired

In congratulating all 11 bands at the contest, Daniel added a special mention for Wardle's performance, saying: "Never have I ever been so inspired by a youth ensemble's performance; the amount of detail and attention to character was immense; thank you all so much!"

The music is available by special purchase from Faber Music Ltd. and will be published in Faber Music Band Series in due course.

'Smoke Sketches' is an 8 minute work that takes its inspiration from the art of divination — interpreting visions and images from the smoke of an open fire, and was used as the set-test in the Intermediate Section4BR

To hear the music go to:

https://soundcloud.com/paul-hindmarsh-music/smoke-sketches-daniel-hall-wardle-academy-youth-bandlee-rigg

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 Review

4BR Review — A look back at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival and more

January 28 • Join Iwan and Chris on Thursday evening for a look back at the RNCM Festival as well as looking forward to the Norwegian Nationals in Bergen and more...


Simone Rebello

4BR interview with Simone Rebello

January 28 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox caught up with Simone Rebello to find out more about the forthcoming RNCM Day of Percussion.


Ulf Rosenberg

4BR interview with EBBA President Ulf Rosenberg

January 28 • 4BR speaks to the EBBA President after the announcement that the 2028 European Championships will not take place in England.


rps aWARDS

Shepherd Group join Moore on RPS shortlist

January 28 • The Shepherd Group and conductor Sean Chandler have nominated for the RPS 'Inspiration Award' — and the banding movement can help them win it with their votes.


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Tintwistle Band

January 29 • We have a vacancy for a soprano cornet player, ideally able to join us long-term, but we are also looking to fill this position to compete in the 2nd section Midlands area contest in March 2026.. We enjoy all year round concerts, contests,and social events


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

January 28 • Principal Cornet vacancy after March 2026. Our current player has asked for a very special 80th birthday present, a new player so that he can retire!. . Flexible rehearsal arrangements to support a good band - home life balance


Chinnor Silver

January 27 • Our COMMUNITY BAND is meeting again on Monday (2nd) 11 am and we would welcome any players who would like to join us for a friendly,relaxed rehearsal.. All abilities are welcome with a liking for cake and coffee. Blowing with us doesnt impact your no1 band


Phillip Littlemore

GGSM, AoBBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator, Arranger, Teacher and Publisher


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd