Charity Proms Night
7:30pm, Sat, 9 Nov 2024
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Type of event: Performance Start time: 7:30pm End time: 9:30pm Description: Join us for an enchanting evening of brass music. Our programme features a diverse selection of brass band music that combines music for the Remembrance weekend and Last Night of the Proms. 
Here are the highlights of the evening:
Blenheim Flourishes
This piece, from the pen of American composer James Curnow, opens the concert. It is named after the Oxfordshire palace built in 1705 by John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough, on the estate given to him for his brilliant victories at the Battle of Blenheim during the War of Spanish Succession in 1704.
It strives to capture the spirit of the British band enthusiasts who have challenged our musical imaginations and dedication to music-making.
Nessun Dorma (arr. Snell)
“Nessun Dorma” is one of the most famous arias from Giacomo Puccini’s opera Turandot. The aria is sung by the character Calaf, who expresses his confidence that he will win Princess Turandot's love by solving her riddles. The title translates to “None shall sleep,” the piece is renowned for its powerful and emotional climax.
Howard Snell, a distinguished arranger and conductor, created a brass band arrangement for this iconic aria. Snell’s arrangement captures the dramatic intensity and lyrical beauty of Puccini’s original composition, making it a favourite in brass band repertoires2. This version often features a solo cornet, allowing the performer to showcase their technical skill and expressive capabilities.
Prelude on Lavenham
It is a beautiful and reflective piece composed by Geoffrey Nobes. Nobes, a former Bandmaster of the Portsmouth Citadel Band, dedicated this arrangement to the memory of his friend, Bandmaster Derek Wilding of Lavenham Corps. The piece is based on a tune set to words by hymn writer Nick Fawcett.
The music is characterized by its serene and contemplative nature, offering a moment of calm and introspection. It features lyrical melodies and rich harmonies that create a soothing and meditative atmosphere. This prelude has become a favourite among brass bands for its emotional depth and expressive quality.
The Longest Day (Matthew Tooley)
is a stirring and poignant piece commemorating the D-Day landings during World War II. This composition captures the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who participated in this pivotal event. The music is both evocative and reflective, designed to honour the memory of those who fought and those who lost their lives on that historic day.
Song of Hope
a profoundly moving piece composed by Peter Meechan and dedicated to Ryan Anthony, a celebrated trumpet player and former principal trumpet of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Ryan Anthony was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, and despite being given a limited time to live, he continued to perform and inspire others through his music. It will be performed tonight by Soprano Cornet's soloist, Claire Jenkins.
“Hymn to the Fallen” is a powerful and moving piece composed by John Williams for the 1998 film Saving Private Ryan, directed by Steven Spielberg. This composition is a tribute to the soldiers who fought and died during World War II, particularly those involved in the D-Day landings.
Hymn to the Fallen
The Dambusters March
This is a rousing and patriotic march commemorating the famous World War II raid. Its iconic melody and stirring rhythms will surely evoke a sense of pride and nostalgia.
Arnhem
Composed by Albert Kelly, bandmaster of the Royal Sussex Regiment, to commemorate the Battle of Arnhem, a significant battle during World War II in September 1944 as part of Operation Market Garden. This battle involved a daring airborne assault by Allied forces, aiming to secure critical bridges in the Netherlands to facilitate a rapid advance into Germany. Despite the bravery and determination of the soldiers, the operation faced fierce resistance and ultimately did not achieve its objectives.
A modern and exciting piece that brings the epic themes of the popular film to the brass band setting. Its heroic and cinematic qualities will thrill fans of the movie.
The Real Hero from Avengers: Endgame
a hauntingly beautiful piece from The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace, composed by Sir Karl Jenkins. This work was commissioned by the Royal Armouries Museum for the Millennium celebrations and is dedicated to the victims of the Kosovo crisis. The mass is an anti-war piece that combines the traditional Catholic Mass with other religious and historical texts, aiming to convey a message of peace and reflection on the horrors of war
Benedictus
Dear Lord And Father Of Mankind
It is a beautiful hymn arrangement by our musical director, Leigh Baker, in memory of his parents. It combines reverence and warmth. Its familiar melody and rich harmonies will resonate with the audience.
Fantasia on British Sea Songs
a medley arranged by Sir Henry Wood in 1905 to commemorate the centenary of the Battle of Trafalgar.. This piece has become a staple of the BBC’s Last Night of the Proms concert, celebrated for its lively and patriotic character.
Jerusalem
composed by Sir Hubert Parry and orchestrated by Sir Edward Elgar, it is a beloved piece often performed at the Last Night of the Proms. This tradition was initiated by Malcolm Sargent in 1953. The piece is based on the poem “And Did Those Feet in Ancient Time” by William Blake, and it has become an unofficial anthem of England, celebrated for its stirring melody and patriotic lyrics.
Pomp And Circumstance March No. 4
We conclude with the grand and ceremonial march by Edward Elgar. Its majestic themes and triumphant spirit provide a fitting conclusion to the concert.
We look forward to sharing this wonderful evening of music with you. Join us for a night of celebration, reflection, and inspiration through the power of brass band music.
