In former days, this weekend at Regent Hall was an annual fixture in the ISB programme, marking the start of the new season, and giving the audience the first opportunity to hear their latest repertoire.
After a break of 15 years, they returned, with the added bonus of a workshop during the afternoon that attracted 62 young players. Having worked with ISB members, they presented their programme, and also joined with the band to open the second half.
Paean of praise
The programme opened with 'My God and King', a vibrant paean of praise from Paul Sharman, based on the hymn 'Let all the World in Every Corner Sing, My God and King!' This contrasted effectively with the Victorian part-song transcription, 'Tu es Petrus'.
After a prayer, 'On We March', a sparkling item from the pen of Karl Larsson, written for the Pasadena Tabernacle Band (formerly Hollywood Tabernacle) and incorporating many cinematic references.
Tribute
There were more quotes to be found in 'Music of a Legacy', using the tune 'Lord for the Years' as the basis for a tribute to former writers and musicians. Various genres of music were incorporated in a piece that encourages further hearing.
The cornet quartet 'Fuego!' is a reworking by Paul Sharman of an ensemble piece originally featuring eight soloists, written in an attractive Latin American style incorporating effective interaction between the players.
Accomplished
Bas trombonist Stephen Williams is one of the newest members of the ISB, but he showed great assurance in 'Rhapsody for Bass Trombone', with some stunning low register work. Meanwhile, Brian Hogg's 'Gigue: Alleluja, Amen!' put the whole band through its paces, presenting 'Spanish Chant' in the style of a baroque dance, complete with prominent tambourine.
The band is no stranger to Eric Ball’s 'Journey into Freedom' and sounded quite comfortable with its demands, particularly its lyrical aspects.
Youth meets experience
Youth Brass joined with the ISB for 'Everybody Sing his Praise' and Peter Graham's 'Las Luvias Grandes' suite to open the second half - a memorable experience for the young players.
Following the congregational song, Derick Kane displayed exemplary technique in 'Air 'N' Variations', showing little sign of tiredness following the demands of his week with the Territorial Youth Band, before Richard Woodrow stepped forward to play Eric Whitacre's 'The Seal Lullaby'.
Gift of music
The 'Prelude on the Hymn Tune Lavenham' led into the scripture reading, with Commissioner Marian Adams referring to the psalmist David writing and playing music, as well as making instruments.
This was followed by 'Fire in the Blood', with fine lyrical solo work from Richard Woodrow and Derick Kane, and a climax that really pushed the acoustic to the limit.
The programme ended with a crisp rendition of 'Praise', finishing with all the players on their feet facing the audience.
Peter Bale
