*
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    


Siddis Brass

Siddis confirms 64 band line-up

July 31 • The Siddis Brass Entertainment Championships will be packed with competing bands.


Barrhead Band

Barrhead to make free investment in youth

July 31 • Barrhead Burgh Band will look to kickstart its future prosperity with a free ethos of inclusion and support in youth.


Btteshanger

Betteshanger looks to Eclipse recent achievements

July 31 • Betteshanger Colliery Welfare Band is looking to gain yet more National success thanks to the help of generous sponsors.


Wellington

New Zealand President reflects on banding's worldwide contribution

July 31 • BBANZ President, John Sullivan focusses his praise for bands at home and abroad in the latest issue of the 'Mouthpiece' journal.


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


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Crewe Brass

August 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a FRONT ROW CORNET to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

August 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a BBb BASS to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

August 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for PERCUSSION PLAYERS (TUNED and KIT) to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Alwyn Green

LRAM, LTCL
Conductor, composer, arranger, adjudicator, teacher and soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd