*
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    


Podcat

4BR Podcast: Are you not entertained?

November 10 • Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas look at the wider questions surrounding brass band entertainment — and you can have your opinion heard...


Brass in Concert

Brass in Concert previews on offer

November 10 • Some of the bands will be providing a sneak preview of their entertainment programmes ahead of their trips to Gateshead.


Marc Reift

Editions Marc Reift publishes 100,000th title

November 10 • Music publishers Editions Marc Reift has just reached a remarkable milestone.


Brass in Concert

VIP tickets up for grabs at Brass in Concert

November 10 • There is a chance to get two of the very best seats in the house and enjoy a VIP experience at Brass in Concert by helping a fantastic cause — but you need to be generous and quick...


Regent Hall Concerts - Band of the RAF Regiment Brass Ensemble

Friday 20 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Bilton Silver President's Concert

Friday 27 November • St George's Church, St Johns Avenue, Rugby CV22 5HR


West Yorkshire Police Band - Mid Yorkshire Breast Cancer Support

Saturday 28 November • Cluntergate Centre, Horbury WF4 5DA


Newstead Brass - The Snowman - Live

Saturday 5 December • Forest Town Arena. Clipstone Road West, Forest Town. Mansfield NG19 0EE


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Christmas Magic and More

Sunday 13 December • Rugby Theatre, Henry Street, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 2QA


Chinnor Silver

November 6 • We are looking to strengthen our top end and require an ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORNET to join this friendly and ambitious 1st Section band.Good book of concerts and contests planned that includes a trip to Belgium.


Oxford Cherwell Brass

November 6 • Oxford Cherwell Brass invites applications for a new MUSICAL DIRECTOR . We seek a new MD who is committed to an inclusive positive approach towards enjoyment of music making and development. We are a friendly second section band (L&SC).


Hade Edge Band

November 5 • Hade Edge Band are looking to recruit Front Row Cornets, position negotiable to complete our line up for next years Area contest. The band rehearse on Tuesday & Thursday at 7.45pm till 9.45pm in our fantastic purpose built bandroom.


Alex McGee

MA BMus PGCE
Conductor & Composer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd