Composer Edward Gregson has just returned from a trip to Switzerland where he worked over three days with students at Bern University of the Arts (HKB).
The Bern Hochschule Brass Department has a worldwide reputation for excellence, with the HKB Brass Ensemble working on four of his compositions for symphonic brass ensemble before featuring them in a final concert at the university's Yehudi Menuhin Forum.
Invitation
The invitation came at the request of conductor Corsin Tuor, Head of Wind Music Conducting, who described it as "an exciting, educational and intensive few days for both the conducting students and the musicians of the brass ensemble."
The works featured were his 'Fanfare for a New Era', 'Music of the Angels', 'The Merry Love to Dance' and 'Symphony in Two Movements.
Insight and experience
Edward Gregson passed on his insight to both conductors and performers, as well as giving an evening interview which saw him talk about his musical hinterland, approach and creative inspirations.
Corsin Tuor told 4BR: "In addition to sharing many anecdotes and experiences from his life, he also shared his thoughts on his harmonic and melodic musical language.
Everyone found it very exciting to hear how a composer with such an unmistakable personal style continues to find new creative inspiration."
The standard of leadership, conducting and performance was outstanding. Corsin is leading a superb postgraduate conducting course, the results of which are obviousEdward Gregson
Concert masterclass
The event closed with a memorable masterclass concert under the direction of Corsin Tuor with conducting students Antonio Novais, Suwahn Kim, and Leonie Monnerat. Edward Gregson acted as moderator, guiding the audience through the evening
Reflecting on the trip, Edward Gregson told 4BR: "This was such a musically demanding but remarkably rewarding visit. The standard of leadership, conducting and performance was outstanding. Corsin is leading a superb postgraduate conducting course, the results of which are obvious."
