*
banner

2021 4BR Special Award

This year's 4BR Special Award goes to Denis Wick — a man who revolutionised the way modern brass band sounds.

Special AWARD
  The 4BR Special Award this year goes to Denis Wick

There are very few people associated with the brass band movement who can genuinely be described as architects of revolution.

Denis Wick

One such is Denis Wick, the recipient of the 2021 4BR Special Award.

His remarkably informed musical insight linked to an equally refined business acumen revolutionised the sound of the modern, low-pitched brass band. It continues to this day.

Denis Wick's professional playing career spanned well over 40 years; from his first appointment at the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in 1950, to encapsulate a 31-year tenure at the LSO (1957-1988).

His sound was heard on iconic recordings such as the premiere of the Gordon Jacob 'Trombone Concerto' to the soundtrack to the Star Wars films, whilst his pedagogy has also left a lasting influence — from the publication of his 'Trombone Technique' to his teaching at the Guildhall School of Music.

Countless players have benefited from his expertise — literally so in respect to his mouthpieces (mutes and accessories), which first appeared around 1968.

His name is to be found on the lips of players — from beginners to the world's greatest exponents, all around the musical world. It has become a gold plated marker of excellence.

Accolades

All the accolades have been richly deserved — from fellow players to former pupils, industry pioneers and entrepreneurs to a citation from Her Majesty The Queen on being presented with a 'Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade' in 2014.

Now aged 90, when asked about the impact he had on the brass band world, he said: "I was once told that our mouthpieces had revolutionised the sound of the modern brass band. It's such a wonderful musical ensemble, so it should always embrace innovation. Hopefully, we can do more to help that in the years to come."

Just look around the ranks of any brass band — from youth to elite level and you both see and hear the influence of Denis Wick in action.

That is the mark of a musician of true revolutionary spirit and a man committed to excellence in all the things he has done during his professional life.

He is the worthiest of recipients of the 4BR Award — and long may he continue to inspire further revolutions in the years to come.

Iwan Fox

Just look around the ranks of any brass band — from youth to elite level and you both see and hear the influence of Denis Wick in action4BR

Find out more

To find out more about Denis Wick go to:
https://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2021/1924.asp

4BR Special Award:


2020: Brass Bands England
2019: Lito Fontana
2018: Allan Withington
2017: Paul Hindmarsh
2016: Carole Crompton
2015: Philip Wilby
2014: Mike Shenton
2013: John Berryman
2012: Howard Snell
2011: Philip Sparke
2010: Scottish Brass Band Association
2009: Ian Williams
2008: Norwegian Band Federation
2007: Peter Roberts
2006: Markus Bach
2005: David Gallaher
2004: David Read
2003: Salvationist Publishing & Supplies Ltd
2002: Frank Hodges
2001: Alan Jenkins

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    


NASUWT Riverside

North East culture award for NASUWT Riverside

December 12 • NASUWT Riverside gain recognition for its part in the North East Culture Awards' 'Performance of the Year' at the Durham Brass Festival.


NYBBGB

National Youth Band Composer Competition closing date looms

December 12 • Composers have until the 31st December to send in their entries for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Young Composer Competition.


McCabe

McCabe book now available at Presto Music

December 12 • The compilation of the letters of composer John McCabe are now available from the Presto Music website.


bRASS cOALITION

Coalition forces help UK charity fund raising

December 12 • A band made up of players from several London and Southern Counties bands come together to provide musical festive force for Sarcoma UK.


Longridge Band - Christmas Concert

Saturday 7 December • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HJ


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 7 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF120JZ


Enderby Band - Broughton Astley Rock Choir

Friday 13 December • Thomas Estley Community College. 2 Station Road. Broughton Astley. Leicestershire LE9 6PT


Bedford Town Band - Bedford Town Band Brass Academy

Saturday 14 December • Putnoe Heights Church MK418EB


Newstead Brass - Christmas Showcase 2024

Saturday 14 December • St Wilfrid's Church, Church Street, Kirkby in Ashfield NG17 8LA


Besses o'th' Barn Band

December 12 • Due to a change of circumstances. The band now require one front row cornet and two back row cornets to complete our line up for the North West Area Contest in Blackpool..


Wakefield Metropolitan Brass Band

December 10 • Solo Baritone and Percussion required to add to the band building towards the NEMBBA and area contests. Under the Direction of Duncan Beckley, the band is keen to fill the few remaining seats to add to the continually improving ensemble.


Barnsley Brass

December 10 • Barnsley Brass requires an Eb bass player. We are based in Worsbrough Bridge on the A61 just south of Barnsley. Rehearsals are Monday and Thursday evenings at 8pm in our purpose built bandroom.


Alex McGee

MA BMus PGCE
Conductor & Composer


               

 © 2024 4barsrest.com Ltd