Works from three of the brass band world's most inventive composers have been shortlisted for a 2018 British Composer Award.
'Dark Arteries Suite' by Gavin Higgins, 'Mindscapes' by Lucy Pankhurst and 'The Turing Test' by Simon Dobson are the nominations in the Wind Band or Brass Band category of the prestigious accolades — the winners of which will be announced at a ceremony at the British Museum in London on 4th December.
Diversity and vibrancy
A record 560 works that received a UK premiere between 1st April 2017 and 31st March 2018 were submitted for consideration in the twelve categories, with the organisers stating that they highlighted "…the diversity and vibrancy of contemporary composition in the UK today."
The British Composer Awards are presented by BASCA and sponsored by PRS for Music. The event is in association with BBC Radio 3 providing exclusive broadcast coverage.
Close to my heart
Speaking about their nominations, Gavin Higgins told 4BR: "I'm thrilled as 'Dark Arteries' is a work that is very close to my heart. It initially brought together my passion for brass bands and dance and it was a pleasure to see it toured so successfully by Rambert.
The brass band suite came from this — and I've been delighted at the way its performances by the National Youth Band and Tredegar at the RNCM Brass Band Festival were received. To be alongside two outstanding composers in Lucy and Simon makes it very special."
Sonic self-portrait
That was also a sentiment shared by former winner Lucy Pankhurst, whose composition was also premiered at the 2018 RNCM event by the RNCM Brass Band. "'Mindscapes' is a very personal work — a 'sonic self-portrait'. It allowed me to explore heightened emotional states and the power of the subconscious of what I call a monologue of my noisy brain.
I was very pleased by its reception and thrilled that it has been nominated for the award alongside two great friends and composers in Gavin and Simon."
Growing critical acclaim
For former two time winner Simon Dobson, the nomination enforces his belief that contemporary works for the brass band medium are finding a growing critical acclaim. "That's the thing I'm most encouraged about — especially linked to the works of Gavin and Lucy amongst others.
I think it shows that there is a growing acceptance and appreciation of modern brass band repertoire — and I'm delighted that bringing the story of Alan Turing to life has been recognised in this way."
A record 560 works that received a UK premiere between 1st April 2017 and 31st March 2018 were submitted for consideration in the twelve categories4BR
Wealth of UK talent
In announcing the nominations, Crispin Hunt, Chair at BASCA, said: "In this record-breaking year for entries, BASCA is delighted to celebrate the breadth of works for the British Composer Awards, representing a wealth of UK talent"
Meanwhile, Nigel Elderton, PRS for Music Chairman, added: "It is inspiring to see that over half of this year's nominated composers are aged under 40 and first-time nominees, showing that the UK classical music landscape is truly continuing to flourish."
