Ahead of a major 80th birthday retrospective of his brass band music at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival, composer Edward Gregson has been enjoying recording a new CD with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra under conductor Ben Gernon at Salford Media City studios.

Tuba Concerto

Brass has certainly played a major part in it, with his landmark 'Tuba Concerto' recorded by Ross Knight.

It will be joined on the release by his 'Oboe Concerto' performed by Jennifer Galloway and his Novello Award nominated 'Viola Concerto — Three Goddesses' performed by Rachel Roberts — reprising the acclaimed premiere that was given at the Presteigne Festival in 2023.

In addition the composer will also record to smaller piano works of great personal significance; 'Song for Sue' which was dedicated to his wife in its original format as part of his 'Concertante' from 1966, and his 'Song for Bram', which was originally composed in tribute to the late Bramwell Tovey and premiered at the RNCM Brass Band Festival in 2023 alongside Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

Thrilling experience

"It's been a thrilling experience hearing Ross perform," he said. "It really was a wow performance, that was hugely admired by the orchestra. What a player he is — a true world class concerto performer."

In response Ross stated: "Big thank you to Edward Gregson for his trust in me to record his wonderful concerto and to Ben Gernon and the BBC Philharmonic for their wonderful playing and incredible musicianship. I can't wait to hear the final product!"

Big thank you to Edward Gregson for his trust in me to record his wonderful concerto and to Ben Gernon and the BBC Philharmonic for their wonderful playing and incredible musicianshipRoss Knight

Gods and Goddesses

Edward Gregson added that the recording of the 'Viola Concerto' is also very apt as its companion piece, his new 'Tenor Horn Concerto' will be performed by Tim de Maeseneer at the RNCM Festival with Foden's Band.

He is also delighted that he has been able to record the new piano and orchestral version of 'Song for Bram'.

"It's going to be wonderful to hear both 'Three Goddesses' followed by the world premiere of 'Three Gods' in such a short space of time — both played by exceptional performers, and it has long been a desire of mark the friendship and respect I had for Bram with this new version of the 'Song'.

I have to say Ben Gernon has been wonderful in leading the orchestra and the results have been stunning. Thanks also go to producer Brian Pidgeon and sound engineer Steve Rinker."

The recording is due to be released on the Chandos label in November 2025.