Spirit of the Valleys
4-Jun-2009
Is there something stirring in the valley's of South Wales? Tredegar's musical spirit is on show on their latest release...
Tredegar Town Band
Conductor: Ian Porthouse
Soloists: Dewi Griffiths, Darren Morris, Andrea Lewis, Alun McNeil-Watson, Rhydian Griffiths, Steve Barnsely, Geraint Chamberlain, Gethin Rees
Music House Productions: CD MHP 508
Total Playing Time: 68.44
The title track, ‘Spirit of the Valleys’, written especially for the resurgence of Tredegar Town Band under the exacting direction of Ian Porthouse, by Chris King (the successful MD of Friary Guildford Band), opens a well presented programme of balanced ‘'Bandstand’' music aimed at keeping listeners intent upon really enjoying ever changing melodies, harmonies and rhythmic patterns.
Contrasting
Recorded in late Autumn 2008, this disc includes seven contrasting solo items interspersed between eight full ensemble tracks, comprising almost sixty-nine minutes of compelling and entertaining listening.
Impressive
Each soloist amply displays his or her’s impressive tonal qualities and technique -none more so than long serving principal euphonium Darren Morris. In his solo, ‘Spirit of Life’ (Catherwood), Darren’s phrasing and lyricism is impressive.
Likewise, the sensitive playing of the well established soprano cornetist Steve Barnsley, shines forth in his delivery of ‘Flowerdale’ (Sparke). This solo now serves as a fitting tribute to Steve, who has been obliged to retire from playing due to ill-health.
Emerging
Music from the pens of two rapidly emerging composers, Gavin Higgins and Matthew Hall, effectively impact upon this programme of ‘something old, something new’.
Memories
The coquettish nature of ‘Die Fledermaus’ (Strauss), is well captured in a performance that will tug at the memories of mature bandsfolk who will be aware that compulsory overtures of this calibre were standard fodder for live broadcasts prior to the advent of pre-recorded programmes.
Fine testimony
Each track is skilfully led by Dewi Griffiths, who has risen rapidly to the front rank of contemporary principal cornet players under the guidance of Ian Porthouse. The recent accolade of Best Soloist Award at the 2009 Grand Shield contest is a fine testimony to Dewi’s prowess.
Precise
The playing throughout each track is precise and well shaped by Ian Porthouse, with only momentary glimpses of harshness in the tonal quality of louder dynamic climaxes - this may have been influenced by the acoustic during the recording sessions.
Satisfying
The programme ends with an exuberant performance of ‘Graduation Day’ (Sparke),where the changing styles and rhythmic patterns are well captured ,bringing the entire programme to a satisfying and enjoyable close.
The CD is effectively packaged with informative programme notes and a potted history of the band from it's formation in 1876 and is a welcome counterpoint to the fine playing from a band that has fully rediscovered its musical spirit.
C. Brian Buckley
What's on this CD?
1. Spirit of the Valleys, Chris King, 5.10
2. The Paragon, Sutton, 5.15
Cornet—Dewi Griffiths
3. A Gaelic Blessing, Rutter arr. Barry, 2.18
4. The Bat (Die Fledermaus), Strauss arr. Winter, 8.40
5. Spirit of Life, Catherwood, 4.51
Euphonium—Darren Morris
6. Dragon’s Rise, Hall, 4.28
7. Over the Rainbow, Arlen arr. Farr, 4.10
Flugel—Andrea Lewis
8. Old Comrades, Teike, 4.35
9. Tea for Two, Youman arr. Snell, 4.00
Percussion — Alun McNeil-Watson & Rhydian Griffiths
10. Little Red Bird, Trad arr. Richards, 4.59
Baritone—Geraint Chamberlain
11. Puttin’ on the Ritz, Berlin arr. Roberts, 2.53
12. Flowerdale, Sparke, 4.05
Soprano—Steve Barnsley
13. Martra’s Dance, Whelan arr. Higgins, 2.15
14. The Bass in the Ballroom, Newsome, 4.45
Eb Tuba—Gethin Rees
15. Fugue from Graduation Day, Sparke, 6.13
Total Playing Time: 68.44
