Two of the most inventive minds in the brass band world have been enjoying the sunshine (and a little drop or two of tasty local wine) in France as they plan their next collaboration together.

Composer Simon Dobson and conductor Allan Withington met up at Allan's 'La Petite Maison' retreat in Monflanquin in the Lot-et-Garonne area of south west France to discuss ideas for this year's Siddis Entertainment contest in Stavanger.

Acclaim

The duo have gained widespread critical for their projects with Stavanger such as 'The Life of Marlene Dietrich', and as Allan told 4BR, the latest get together has come up with some equally exciting ideas.

"It's great to have Simon on board again — and we really did enjoy a brainstorming session that touched on innovative new concepts.

The mix of some lovely local wine and food meant that we started on Wednesday evening and didn't finish until the local cockerel was crowing in the morning!"

It's great to have Simon on board again — and we really did enjoy a brainstorming session that touched on innovative new conceptsAllan Withington

Inventive

Allan added: "Simon thinks about music in such an inventive way — and one that really appeals to me. We can't wait to get started now on presenting our ideas at the Siddis contest in Stavanger in November — although it may not include the cockerel."