*
banner

National Youth prepare for MacMillan world premiere with LSO

The youngsters of the National Youth Brass Band will be part of a world premiere of a new James McMillan (above) work at the Barbican in London this weekend, inspired by the war poet Charles Sorley.

Sorely
  The work by James Macmillan is set to the words of the poet Charles Sorley

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is preparing for one of the most significant concert appearances of its 66 year history, when they take to the stage at the Barbican in London on Sunday 4th November to be part of the orchestral world premiere of James MacMillan's work, 'All the Hills and Vales Along'.

Setting words by Charles Sorley, a poet killed in action in 1915, it addresses rows of soldiers on their way to the front: "On, marching men, on to the gates of death with song"4BR

On, marching men

Directed by Gianandrea Noseda, the band will share the stage with the London Symphony Orchestra and the London Symphony Chorus for the work commissioned to commemorate 100 years since the Armistice of 1918, and which remembers the human cost of war.

Setting words by Charles Sorley (above), a poet killed in action in 1915, it addresses rows of soldiers on their way to the front: "On, marching men, on/ To the gates of death with song/ … Give your gladness to earth's keeping/ So be glad, when you are sleeping..."

Masterclasses

In addition to being part of the intense rehearsal process this weekend, the talented youngsters will also enjoy masterclasses and workshops led by the likes of LSO stars Philip Cobb, Peter Moore, Patrick Harrild and Neil Percy.

They will also have the opportunity to attend the LSO Discovery Day at LSO St. Luke's, when the composer, Sir James Macmillan will discuss the inspiration for his new music alongside LSO Managing Director, Kathryn McDowell.

Setting words by Charles Sorley, a poet killed in action in 1915, it addresses rows of soldiers on their way to the front: "On, marching men, on to the gates of death with song"4BR

Concert details

The concert takes place on Sunday 4th November starting at 7.00pm at The Barbican Concert Hall,
London.

To find out more and book tickets go to:
https://lso.co.uk/whats-on/icalrepeat.detail/2018/11/04/1269/-/james-macmillan-s-all-the-hills-and-vales-along.html

Image: Philip Gatward

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    


bLACK dYJE

Media spotlight on Black Dyke Band ahead of Proms return

July 17 • The national media has certainly been interested in Black Dyke Band's return to the BBC Proms for the first time since 2007.


Paul Holland

Holland takes temporary lead at Elgar International Brass Band Summer School

July 17 • Flowers MD, Paul Holland will take the main reins at the 2027 Summer School as Philip Harper takes a temporary break for NYBBGB duties.


Dobcross Training

Dobcross Youth Training Band grab attention at Symphony Hall

July 17 • The young players of Dobcross Youth Training Band recently wowed the audience and music mentors at Symphony Hall in Birmingham


Tonga

Tongan celebration of music, culture and friendship

July 17 • The Music for Peace Festival in Tonga has been a demonstration of the growing strength of brass banding in the Kingdom.


Regent Brass - Brass on the Grass

Wednesday 22 July • The College Garden, Westminster Abbey, Deans Yard, London SW1P 3PA


Sherborne Town Band - Free Music in the park

Sunday 26 July • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park

Sunday 9 August • Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park BA14 8AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Tintwistle Band

July 16 • We have a vacancy for soprano cornet, and with lots of exciting engagements coming up would love to get this seat filled! As a second section band,we rehearse every Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our bandroom in Tintwistle under the baton of MD Jim Henson.


City of Norwich Brass

July 16 • City of Norwich Brass seeks Front & Back Row Cornets, Solo Euphonium and EEb/BBb Basses. Join a friendly, ambitious band with a varied programme of concerts, contests and community performances. Rehearsals in Hethersett, Norwich.


Chinnor Silver

July 14 • Our COMMUNITY BAND are meeting again on MONDAY 20th at 11 am in our bandroom.. We would welcome players of all ages and abilities to join us for a friendly relaxed rehearsal.. Of course there is tea and cake !!!. And you can even choose a piece to play


John Ward


Conductor, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd