An eagerly anticipated new book that gives insight into the cultural and musical development of the brass band movement is set to be released later this year.

The Brass Band Story

'The Brass Band Story' has been written by Prof Trevor Herbert, the critically acclaimed Emeritus Professor of Music at the Open University and author and editor of 'The British Brass Band', 'The Brass Band Movement in the 19th and 20th Centuries' and 'The Cambridge Encyclopaedia of Brass Instruments'.

It forthcoming publication was discussed by on the latest 4BR Review podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaV0k6n3Grc

It is aimed at general readers interested in an overall analysis and insight into the brass band movement in the UK and beyond.

Research

The 352 pages of research with accompanying images cover the early history and precursors of brass instruments and technology, as well as the Victorian explosion of contesting, village banding and the influence of the Salvation Army.

It also examines the modern development of the 20th century movement, the conversion to low pitch and broader issues of gender, education and idiom changes alongside the internationalisation of the movement as a whole.

Published by Yale University Press (£25.00 in hardback) and released on July 14th it is dedicated to the respected musicians Ieuan Morgan and John Wallace — two hugely figures who were friends of the author before their death.

Authority

Speaking to 4BR, the book's editor, Joanna Godfrey said: 'Having grown up in the brass band community, I'm so excited to be part of the team publishing The Brass Band Story.

Trevor is a renowned authority on the subject, and his brilliant book will be essential reading for people with a love and respect for brass bands.

Pleasure

The author himself added: "I always knew that writing this book would be a pleasure, but I never anticipated how intriguing the brass band story would turn out to be."

Trevor Herbert was introduced to music in the junior band of the colliery where his father worked. His career has been divided between being a professional trombone player and academic life at the Open University, where he Emeritus Professor of Music, and the Royal College of Music, where he is a research professor.