The ISB opened this enjoyable concert with 'Concertante for Cornets' before leading into excerpts from 'Polovtsian Dances'. 

'Cross-Rhythms' that followed was commissioned from Steven Ponsford for the 2016 Bolsover Brass Band Summer School and combines several melodies associated with the cross; including 'Here at the Cross' and Stainer's majestic 'Cross of Jesus'.

Star soloists

Carl Nielsen chose 'Wondrous Day' for his solo - the music sounding as fresh as ever in a performance full of finesse and character. More recent repertoire followed with Derick Kane's rendition of 'Star Lake Variations'; a realisation of an improvisation by Derick with Peter Graham at the piano. With many references to Leidzen's solos, it displayed the soloist's technique and fluid, lyrical playing style to fine effect.

The up-tempo 'High Over All' preceded a new setting of 'Jesus, Good Above All Other' (Quem Pastores).

'Music of a Legacy' brought the first half to a close, celebrating the heritage of Salvation Army banding with quotes from such luminaries as Ball, Condon, Leidzen and Heaton in a setting that gave all sections their moment in the spotlight.

A bright setting of 'Every Time I Feel the Spirit' was followed by 'Chain Reaction', written by Philip Wilby. This challenging piece, framed by exposed cornet fanfares, featured the melody 'To God be the Glory' incorporating an expertly written fugue section.

Contrasting solos

Richard Woodrow (flugel) and Gary Fountain (soprano) brought fine renditions of 'Living Waters' and 'Intermezzo' from 'Cavalleria Rusticana' respectively, before the band delivered Barrie Gott's 'Shine'.

'What a Wonderful Day', a laid-back swing setting of the Sidney Cox song produced some effective big-band sounds before  Major Noel Wright, recently re-appointed as Executive Officer, spoke on the gift of peace, leading to 'Peace, Perfect Peace', a setting by Howard Davis combining that tune with 'Abide with Me'.

Future commitment

The Australian connection continued with 'To Boldly Go', written to mark the 125th Anniversary of the Melbourne Staff Band. This positive celebration has as its heart the melody 'I'll Not Turn Back', and the presence of its composer, General John Larsson, was acknowledged. It drew out some nicely controlled pianissimo playing before the piece ended in a blaze of sound.

A foot-tapping encore of 'Praise' concluded an enjoyable concert.

Peter Bale