A new work from the pen of composer Paul Lovatt-Cooper will be given a world premiere by Black Dyke Band at Lincoln Cathedral in April.

Commissioned by the Market Rasen Band with funding from Grants for the Arts supported by Arts Council England, 'The Forces Unleashed' is a portrayal of the battle that took place in Lincoln in 1141 during the period known as 'The Anarchy'.

Invasion

Paul told 4BR: "The work starts with scenes of Lincoln in flames as an invasion ensues. Forces of Empress Matilda, led by her illegitimate half brother Robert, first Earl of Gloucester, invade the city and battle with soldiers fighting to defend the city for King Stephen.

The opening section portrays the tumultuous fighting between the two armies in the city streets, with just fleeting moments of rest as the leaders plan their next strategic moves."

Sombre

He added: "As the day ends the soldiers reflect on the loss of friends in a sombre, melancholic mood, the emotion of being alive mixed with the fear that their own end could soon be upon them.

Then, as morning dawns, the final section sees the soldiers prepare for conflict. Using the same musical motifs as the opening, battle once again ensues, leading to a dramatic conclusion as the forces of Empress Matilda's capture King Stephen."

The work will be performed in concert at Lincoln Cathedral on Saturday 28th April.

As the day ends the soldiers reflect on the loss of friends in a sombre, melancholic mood, the emotion of being alive mixed with the fear that their own end could soon be upon themPaul Lovatt Cooper

Further details and tickets

https://www.priorbooking.com/e/black-dyke-brass-band-plays-lincoln-cathedral
https://lincolncathedral.com/forthcoming-events/¬world-class-brass-concert/