With the European Brass Band Championships (EBBC) taking place in Birmingham this weekend, composer Prof Philip Wilby has taken the time to talk about his work 'Saints Triumphant' in a special interview with Paul Hindmarsh, Chair of the European Brass Band Association Music Commission.

Paul headed to Philip's wonderful windmill home in Yorkshire to join him as he was sat at his own studio organ to find out more about the work which was commissioned by Brass Bands England supported by the Ralph Vaughan Williams Trust.

Sine Nomine

Prof Wilby gives a fascinating insight into the work and its inspiration based on the hymn tune, 'Sine Nomine'.

The work will be given 11 performances at Symphony Hall on Saturday afternoon, with the audience given the opportunity to once again hear the interview before the 'world premiere' by the band drawn number 1.

Thrilled

Speaking about the work, Kenny Crookston, CEO of Brass Bands England, commented: "We are thrilled Philip Wilby has composed this year's test-piece. Having produced a range of stunning test-pieces for band contests during his career, we know we are in safe hands.

Inspired by one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams, the work provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase our own musical tradition to international colleagues and visitors.

Philip will also be one of the adjudicators for the European Composers Competition on Friday evening featuring some fantastic brass band compositions from the best of Europe's young composers.

To enjoy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZzkM6_xNIU

Tickets:

Limited tickets are still available via: https://bmusic.co.uk/ebbf-2022