*
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    


Cheltenham

Cheltenham judges confirmed

July 25 • The judges tasked with picking the winners at the 2025 Cheltenham National Finals have been announced.


Sold Out

National Youth Band sells out in London

July 25 • Its returns only if you wish to enjoy the NYBBGB in London next month with tickets going fast for the Childrens' Band too.


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band continues to reach out to new audiences

July 25 • The Italian Band was joined by trombone soloist Andrea Conti for a festival performances in heart of Tuscany.


NYBBS

Perth ready for trio of NYBBS music makers

July 25 • Perth Concert Hall will host the trio of National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland later today — so if you are around why not pop along and enjoy them showcasing their talents.


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Dobcross Silver Band - Marsden Silver Prize Band

Sunday 27 July • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

July 25 • Ready for a NEW Music Challenge?. . Dodworth Brass Band, is looking for a new principal cornet as our current player prepares for retirement. Just 5mins from J37 M1. . friendly welcoming band with a packed calendar of exciting concerts & events. . . S75 3RF


Enderby Band

July 24 • Enderby Band (Leicestershire) are a Championship section band looking for: Bb BASS & PERCUSSION (expressions of interest from any perc disciplines are welcome). We are an ambitious, friendly, band with a sensibly full calendar of contests and concerts.


The Marple Band

July 24 • Cornet( back row), Baritone, Horn, Bb Bass and Kit percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new musical journey with our MD Nick Birch.


Jack Capstaff

Bmus (Hons)
Conductor | Composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd