*
banner

Classic test-pieces revisited No 3: A Moorside Suite

Prof Stephen Allen takes an in depth look at one of the classic works for the brass band medium — 'A Moorside Suite' by Gustav Holst

Holst
  Prof Stephen Allen looks at Holst's 'A Moorside Suite'

In the third of a new series on 4BR, Prof Stephen Allen takes an in depth look at another classic work of the brass band medium to examine it in a wider context away from the contesting stage.

This time it is 'A Moorside Suite' by Gustav Holst, written for the 1928 National Championships of Great Britain.

It came just six years before the composer's death in 1934, with Holst, a former trombone player attending the event and remarking that he had "listened to musicians conducted by musicians".

Stephen places the work in the wider social context of the time as well as looking at the sophisticated structures within its three movements.

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    


bbw

The latest issue of Brass Band World Magazine is now out

July 28 • The July/August edition of the leading banding magazine is now out and is packed with news, views, reviews and articles.


mEGAN

Cory sign Newbery

July 28 • Cornet player Megan Newbery has joined the Welsh champion.


Band Supplies

Band Supplies head to Elgar Summer School

July 28 • Band Supplies will bring a packed trade stand to the Elgar International Brass Band Summer School.


Bandamonium

Bandamonium on demand after global reach

July 28 • You can sit back and enjoy the great entertainment on show from the recent Bandamonium event held in Devon on the weekend.


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


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

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


Tintwistle Band

July 28 • Tintwistle Band are looking for a 2nd horn player to complete our horn section. We rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle, and perform a variety of concerts all year round.


Tintwistle Band

July 28 • Tintwistle Band are looking for front row cornet players to help complete the team.. We rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle, and perform a variety of concerts all year round.


Chinnor Silver

July 28 • Our COMMUNITY BAND is meeting again on Monday (3rd) at 11am in our bandroom.. If your band is taking a summer break and you fancy keeping your lip in with a friendly,relaxed rehearsal come and join us.All abilities welcome and its all free with tea & cake.


David W. Ashworth

RSCM, ABBA Exec Member, NABBC PRO.
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd