The critically acclaimed BrassWind Festival recently took place for the 22nd time in Norway.

Established by Manger Musikklag in 2004 led by composer Torstein Aagaard-Nilsen, it has since gained widespread critical acclaim for an ethos of creating a lasting legacy of opportunity to perform new music that contributes to the development of repertoire for brass bands, wind bands and mixed ensembles.

Important role

Nearly 200 works have since received their world premieres, with a spokesperson telling 4BR: "We believe this demonstrates the important role the festival has come to play as a platform for the development of new music.

Many of these works might never have been written without an arena such as BrassWind, where composers are given the opportunity to work closely with performers and have their music brought to life."

One important feature is that the festival brings together professional musicians, conductors and composers to perform alongside talented amateur musicians, students and young school band players.

Development

The spokesperson added: "For Manger Musikklag, it is important to take such an active role in the development of the brass band as an art form. The brass band movement has strong traditions, but in order to remain vibrant and relevant, new music and new forms of expression must continue to be created.

Through BrassWind, we aim to challenge musicians, composers and audiences alike, while demonstrating just how diverse and exciting music for bands can be."

Ghosts of Industry

Led by Margareth Antrobus, Manger Musikklag, presented a concert that featured 'Ghosts of Industry' by Lucy Pankhurst, followed by 'Endring i landskap' by Hilde Holsen, with the composer herself performing as soloist on trumpet and electronics.

The concert concluded with 'Liminal' by Jørgen Hernborg, a composer from MML's #lydenavunge initiative for young composers.

Speaking about the concert the conductor told 4BR: "It was a great journey in musical diversity — and maintained the pioneering outlook of a festival that is so important in its commitment to new and original music for brass and wind band, as well as smaller ensembles."

It was a great journey in musical diversity — and maintained the pioneering outlook of a festival that is so important in its commitment to new and original music for brass and wind band, as well as smaller ensemblesMargareth Antrobus

Unique festival

That was a view further endorsed by Artistic Director, Craig Farr, who added: "BrassWind is a truly unique festival: organised through voluntary effort, yet presented at a professional level, bringing together internationally renowned artists, local musicians and young performers.

For me, it is a great privilege to help shape the festival programme, and I am deeply grateful to Manger Musikklag for the tremendous work that makes BrassWind possible."