British composer Graham Cole has told 4BR that he was thrilled to hear his composition 'Pentacle' has been chosen as the First Section area test piece next year.

ambition

"Having a composition selected for one of the major UK contests has fulfilled a long personal ambition of mine," he told 4BR.

'Pentacle' was premiered at the Swiss National Brass Band finals in Montreux last November and Graham was delighted with the performances and with the excellent response from both the Swiss bandsmen and audience.

I would also like to thank the Music Panel too, not only for picking my piece but for choosing the other pieces by 'new' brass composers too. This is really encouraging and can only be good for the band movementGraham Cole

Difficult

He is looking forward to hearing many more interpretations at the area contests next year.

Graham added: "It may be a pretty difficult piece to get to grips with at first and there is plenty for everyone to do. Hopefully it will grow on the bands as contest day approaches and I’m confident there will be many excellent, musical performances to hear."

Thanks

Graham has thanked Paul Hindmarsh and Faber Music publishers for all their help in promoting his piece and also to Doyen and the Fodens for making him feel very welcome at the CD recording session last month. In particular, he thanked conductor Mike Fowles for his excellent direction and extremely encouraging remarks.

Graham concluded: "I would also like to thank the Music Panel too, not only for picking my piece but for choosing the other pieces by ‘new’ brass composers too. This is really encouraging and can only be good for the band movement."