*
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    


4BR Review

4BR Review: Annual Awards nominations broadcast

December 16 • The long list nominees for the 2025 4BR Awards will be revealed in a special live broadcast on Wednesday evening at 7.00pm — so why not join us and see if you agree with our choices.


Oldroyd

Kennedy signing adds to Oldroyd Opus

December 16 • The award winning cooperation band flugel star Stephanie Kennedy has been welcomed as a new Oldroyd Musical Instruments Performance Artist.


Frans Violet

Willebroek reaches new audiences with primetime television slot

December 16 • The talents of the European champion were enjoyed by a nationwide television audience in Belgium.


We are going on a bear hunt

Leyland to go on a bear hunt...

December 16 • There will be plenty of family fun in 2026 for supporters of Leyland Band — as they lead the musical accompaniment to a classic bear hunt.


Garforth Brass - Strawberry Fields Primary School

Friday 5 December • Garforth Methodist Church,. Church Lane,. Garforth,. Leeds LS25 1NW


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 6 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF12 0JZ


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band Christmas Event

Saturday 6 December • Petworth Town Centre GU28 OAD


Haverhill Silver Band - Family Christmas Concert

Sunday 7 December • Castle Manor Academy, Haverhill CB9 9JE


Petworth Town Band - PetworthTown Band Christmas Concert

Saturday 13 December • St Mary’s Church Petworth GU28 OAD


wantage silver band

December 17 • . Wantage Concert Brass (First Section) are looking to fill the positions of Solo Euphonium, First Baritone and Bass Trombone ASAP. Rehearsals are on Tuesday and Friday, 7:30-9:30pm, led by their dynamic MD Daniel Hall..


Banks Brass Band

December 16 • Merry Christmas from Banks Brass Band, a friendly non-contesting Band near Southport. We are looking for experienced players to strengthen our euphonium, trombone and bass rows. Rehearsals: Mondays 8.00-9.30 in the Hub@Banks community centre, PR4 8BL.


Cambrian Brass

December 15 • We are a hard-working, positive and welcoming brass band, proudly inclusive and open to players of all experience levels. As we prepare for the forthcoming Regional Championships, we currently have a vacancy for a Solo Cornet player.


Chris King

MBA, BMus(Hons), LRSM, AoBBA
Conductor, Arranger, Adjudicator, Compere, Band Trainer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd