Speaking to 4BR, Paul Hindmarsh has been reflecting on the recent RNCM Brass Band Festival, as plaudits and congratulations have been reaching him from across the banding world.
The event, which he hosted as Festival Director attracted large audiences for a series of outstanding concerts from leading UK bands, as well as a brace of stunning concerto and recital performances from Ian Bousfield and David Childs.
In addition, there were premieres of three new works competing for the 2019 John Golland Award, youth band and student band spotlights. Paul also gave an insightful presentation on the life and influence of Wilfred Heaton, whose works provided a central core to the featured repertoire.
Largest audience
"Across the weekend, the event attracted the largest audience in the history of the festival and they came from as far afield as Canada and the USA as well as a strong contingent from Europe,"he said.
"Having guest soloists of the calibre of Ian Bousfield and David Childs proved to be a huge draw in recital as well as for their concerto performances.
It was a special thrill to hear Ian Bousfield's eloquent take on Wilfred Heaton's dark-hued 'Trombone Concerto' and David Childs' authoritative interpretation of Edward Gregson's imposing 'Euphonium Concerto'.
Broadcast delight
Paul added: "I'm delighted that Radio 3 was with us to record this performance which will be featured on a special Radio 3 broadcast on February 6th featuring the concerts of Tredegar and Cory.
With so much Wilfred Heaton being played, this year's festival meant a great deal to me personally. I was blown away by the level of performance throughout the weekend from all the bands, not only of Wilfred's music but also of some of the classics of our repertoire."
My thanks go to all the performers and I cannot thank the RNCM enough for sharing my vision for brass band musicFestival Director, Paul Hindmarsh
Thanks
He concluded: "My thanks go to all the performers and I cannot thank the RNCM enough for sharing my vision for brass band music.
I'm so grateful for the support given by Linda Merrick and the RNCM, as well as the sponsors without whom the festival could not have taken place — from Besson, World of Brass, Getzen and Yamaha to the European Brass Band Association, PHM Publishing, the John Golland and Brass Band Heritage Trusts."
