Burry Port Town Band ran a creative composition project called ACT 2021. The project name derives from the three elements of the project: an arrangement, a composition and a transcription. The project brings together three composers and arrangers to work collaboratively to produce three pieces of music for Brass Band, with one individual leading on each of the pieces, yet working collaboratively with the others, cross-pollinating creative ideas and sharing experience.
For the arrangement, we commissioned Ceri John to make an arrangement of William Mathias’ Organ Fanfare for brass band. Described by Tempo, as having ‘idiomatic solo writing, characterful structure and memorable ideas’ it is a significant piece in contemporary organ repertoire and prime to be reimagined for brass band.
For the composition element of this project, we were excited to commission Daniel Hall to write a ‘Burry Port’ Concert March based on the J H Roberts hymn-tune, Burry Port.
Finally, the transcription element of this project was centred around Mervyn Burtch’s Landscape. Originally written for brass ensemble, we worked with Tayla-Leigh Payne to reimagine Mervyn’s work for full Brass Band.
Ultimately, as well as creating three unique pieces, all parties benefited from the opportunity to develop their own skills within a community of current Welsh composers. We chose works by two established Welsh composers that will gain a new audience through the transcription and arrangement process.
The band are now looking to record these pieces in collaboration with University of Trinity St David Music Technology students and Ty Cerdd Recording Studio, again offering the opportunity for young people to develop their professional experience and benefit from the expertise of those already in the industry.