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Parliamentary praise for Flowers

As they prepare for a busy brace of concert appearances, the achievements of the new European Champion have been noted in Parliament.

Flowers
  Flowers won the European title in Linz

The newly crowned European Champion has gained parliamentary recognition for its historic achievement in claiming the title in Linz in April.

It came from the Flowers Band's local MP, Alex McIntyre, who asked the Leader of the House to join him in congratulating them on their success, as well as that enjoyed by all young musicians in Gloucester.

Unbelievable talent

The Labour MP had been invited to their open rehearsal prior to the contest, where he said he saw their "their fantastic hard work, dedication and unbelievable talent"that led to their triumph.

The Leader of the House responded by adding his congratulations on them becoming the first English band since 2015 to win the title, whilst adding that, "brass bands are so important to our local communities" in enabling youngsters to gain access to learn an instrument and take part in bands

The band is now looking forward to its people at the Newbury Spring Festival on Saturday 23rd May, which will include both their own-choice work from Linz, 'West Wind Metamorphoses for Brass Band' by Oliver Waespi as well as Richard Blackford's major new work, 'Orbital'.

Newbury and Elgar

Following that they will continue their busy schedule with their appearance at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on Sunday 7th June as part of the Elgar International Brass Band Festival.

It will include 'Electric!', a brand-new euphonium solo commissioned for Daniel Thomas from composer Lucy Pankhurst, 'Helios' by Kelly-Marie Murphy, 'Ar Lan y Mor' by Gavin Higgins, 'Pall Mall' and a reprise of Oliver Waespi's test-piece as well as the upcoming British Open test piece, 'Music of the Spheres' by Philip Sparke.

Tickets

Tickets and further information:

Newbury Festival
https://www.newburyspringfestival.org.uk/event/flowers-band-2026/

Elgar International Brass Band Festival
www.eifob.org.uk

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Alwyn Green

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Conductor, composer, arranger, adjudicator, teacher and soloist


               

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