The weekend of 21st February saw a recording that could well prove a landmark in the world of tuba performance and composition!

New music

Prior to their defence of the North West Regional Championship title, Fodens teamed up with their Composer in Residence Andy Scott and fellow composer/saxophonist Barbara Thompson MBE to record a new CD of music written specifically for tuba.

Les and Jim all played magnificently, and with new works from Tubalate, it promises to be a recording not to be missed Composer, Andy Scott

2010 release

The CD, which will be released in January next year will feature performances from James Gourlay, Les Neish, Tubalate & Fodens Band, and comprises five major new works.

Living in the fast lane

Composer Andy Scott told 4BR: "In 2001 Barbara and I first collaborated on a project, Barbara being commissioned to write a work for the Apollo Saxophone Quartet. Following a performance at the RNCM Barbara was introduced to James Gourlay and she told Jim about her Tuba concerto, 'Living in the Fast Lane', which was scored for Solo Tuba and Big Band.

Jim subsequently performed Living in the Fast Lane at the RNCM Festival of Brass 2005, and at the Glasgow International Jazz Festival in 2007.

Stunning

Barbara had heard the stunning playing of Les Neish of the World and was so impressed that she asked if I knew someone that could re-score Living in the Fast Lane for Solo Tuba and Brass Band.

Andy added: "Les and Jim all played magnificently, and with new works from Tubalate, it promises to be a recording not to be missed!"