*
banner

4BR Tuesday Interview with Gavin Higgins

4BR catches up with composer Gavin Higgins to talk about his music past, present and future...

Gavin Higgins
 

Can't see the audio player below? Visit soundcloud.com/4barsrest

4BR talks to composer Gavin Higgins about his ground breaking brass band ballet score 'Dark Arteries'.

It was first premiered at Sadler's Wells with the Rambert Ballet Company six years ago, performed by Tredegar Band under the baton of Ian Porthouse, and which this year the 'Dark Arteries Suite' which came from the work will be be analysed by a new generation of National Youth Band of Great Britain players.

Gavin talks about the work, the impact it made and how delighted that his particular musical language, which is based on the dark brooding melodic heritage of brass music is being enjoyed by young players.

He also gives a first indication of his next major project for the brass band medium — one allied to a symphony orchestra and how he continues to champion brass band music at the the highest levels where he believes it belongs.

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    


ISB and Fodens

Friday night Gregson spotlights

October 10 • You will be spoilt for a Gregson choice between the ISB and Ian Bousfield and Foden's and Mike Lovatt if you are in London this evening.


World of Brass

Make sure you pick up the latest releases at the Albert Hall

October 10 • The World of Brass trade stand will be packed with musical goodies — from the study score of 'Symphony in Two Movements' to the latest releases from Cory, Tredegar, Brett Baker and the ISB.


Edward Gregson

The composer's viewpoint

October 10 • Edward Gregson talks about 'Symphony in Two Movements' to Dr Robert Childs — as well as previewing it on Radio 3 before the contest day itself.


Swiss

What's your National knowledge like?

October 10 • The Swiss brass band website 'Brass Band News' is testing your knowledge of the winners of the National Championship title to see how many you can name in the right years since 1900.


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Stretford Band

October 11 • Stretford Band (Manchester) has a terrific new MD. Now it needs you! We need bass, trombone and percussion but will welcome anyone who wants to play popular music without the stress of competing. Any ability any age.. Hope to see you soon.


Audley Brass

October 10 • Audley Brass (First Section National Finalists 2025) are seeking a first class PRINCIPAL EUPHONIUM. We have some very exciting events coming up including 3 epic beer festival nights and Wychavon Festival of Brass entertainment contest.


Chinnor Silver

October 8 • Our community band is meeting again 11am Monday 13th after completing our first gig.. We would love you to join us.We are a band of mixed abilities and welcome ALL players.. Blowing with us will not impact on your own band and its all free.


Michael Bennett

BSc, RNCM (Perf)
Performer, Composer, Arranger, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd