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Celebrating the centenary of Arthur Butterworth

With the centenary of his birth in August, we speak to David Richards about the life and works of Arthur Butterworth and how he hopes the brass banding world can help restore his music music from neglect.

Arthur
  4th August marks the centenary of the birth of composer Arthur Butterworth

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The 4th August this year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Arthur Butterworth MBE — a composer who made a lasting impression on the brass band movement with his extensive output of works.

Given the sometimes uncompromising nature of his musical language, many have suffered from neglect, but with his centenary looming on the horizon moves are being made for a long overdue spotlight to be shone on them once more.

4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to David Richards who worked closely with the composer and his family over many years.

He is spearheading efforts to get his hugely significant output not just for brass bands, but for orchestra, wind band, choral, solo instrumental and voice performed once more on a regular basis as well as being featured on radio.

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Michael Bennett

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


               

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