*
banner

Report & Result: 9th European Composer Competition

Swiss composer Gauthier Dupertuis claims the first European title in Palanga with his work inspired by an enigmatic French painting.

winner
  Gauthier Dupertuis claims the European title honours in Palanga.

'Magdalena', by 26 year old Swiss composer Gauthier Dupertuis has won the 9th European Composer Competition.

It was inspired by an enigmatically troubling painting by French artist Francois Auguster Biard, entitled, 'Magdalena Bay' that seemed to show a magnificent Norwegian landscape on the island of Spitsbergen.

However, on closer inspection it also showed in the foreground the detritus and death throes of the crew of a shipwreck.

Spark of originality

It was described by judge Edward Gregson (joined by Torstein Aagaard-Nilsen and Vaida Striaupaite-Beinariene) as having, "a real spark of originality and quality".

Gauthier won the 3500 first prize package plus a further 500 Euro as the 'Band Prize' voted for by members of Cory Band.

Second place and a prize of 1500 Euros went to 'Ascension' from 22 year old English composer Jack Ledger-Dowse, whilst third prize of 1000 plus the Audience Prize of 500 Euros went to 20 year old Lennert Van Laenen of Belgium.

Thrilled

"I'm thrilled to have won," Gauthier told 4BR. "I'm now studying conducting at Fribourg Conservatoire and composing has been something that has been a growing interest for me for some time.

I have more of a wind band background, but also played euphonium although not to a very high standard.

I really enjoyed writing the piece and exploring the soundscape of a brass band which is different to my primary link to choral singing with my conducting. It has really opened a new opportunity for me which I would like to explore further."

Result:


1. Gauthier Dupertuis (Switzerland) — 'Magdalena'
2. Jack Ledger-Dowse (England) — 'Ascension'
3. Lennert Van Laenen (Belgium) — 'Red Planet'

Band Prize: Gauthier Dupertuis (Switzerland) — 'Magdalena'
Audience Prize: Lennert Van Laenen (Belgium) — 'Red Planet'

Image copyright:
https://chappersphoto.co.uk/

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    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Linthwaite Band

July 1 • We are a friendly 4th section contesting band with various engagements throughout the year, and currently have a vacancy for a cornet player (position negotiable) and are keen to fill the position. Please see contact details below.


Newport Borough Brass Band

July 1 • We are inviting applications for the position of Principal Cornet. . Would you like to be a part of the process to lead & shape the future of the band? Newport Borough Brass Band are looking for a dynamic Principal Cornet player to lead the team.


Newport Borough Brass Band

July 1 • We are inviting applications for the position of Musical Director.. The band are looking for a positive and dynamic leader who can further develop our players skills & aid us in our aspirations of reaching the 1st section.


Andreas Kratz

Mus.B (hons)
Conductor, Adjudicator, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd