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Raising bands - was Re: 2nd section finals test

To: brass-band@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Raising bands - was Re: 2nd section finals test
From: Edy Van Asch <becgm056@xxxxxxx>
Date: Wed, 05 May 1999 22:21:45 +0200
Priority: low
References: <199905042251.XAA25845@popmail.dircon.co.uk>
Reply-to: brass-band@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Steve Sykes wrote:

> Hi listers,
>
> I'm having trouble believing that 'Three Figures' has been selected as the
> 2nd section Nationals test.

Indeed, incredible choice. Who's responsible for that? 2nd section!! I truly
believe it would even be difficult for any championship section band anywhere in
the world. And I agree also with Jeremy about Salute to Youth, o dear.

As the European championships once turned back to the early days of banding when
limiting the own choice to be of a certain period, it was proven few bands can
produce the necessary style, sound, musicianship and most of the conductors don't
even know how to start working on it.
There are some other pieces, like eg Une vie de matelot, that IMHO need a lot of
experience and a very good team. I felt sorry I couldn't attend the regionals
when matelot was imposed, but I am sure the bands were indeed struggling. What's
the best recording existing on matelot, by the way. I only trust Dykes recording
dating from the late 70s, with again a gorgeous and almighty Phillip McCann.

I may sound funny to a lot of people, but to me it's far more difficult to play
Three Figures than say Masquerade. Who can hear all those fast notes? (ok, you
need a proper euphonium)
I understand bands want to abroad the repertoire but everybody should pass
(understand work on it) the classical brassband repertoire. Should that be a
reason why they impose it to the lower sections?
I feel if you haven't played Holst, Howells, Ireland, Vinter, Fletcher, Ball,...
you don't know what banding is about. If I see bandsman being raised just by
playing Sparke and Wilby I have my doubts. After a while they can not even play a
proper choral or even a proper chord, which has the true brassbandsound in it, or
play a simple melody without a gliss.

Or I am getting old (just 36 please)?

Sure about one thing, the adjudicators will have an easy day.

Regards,
Edy

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References:
- 2nd section finals test
  - From: Steve Sykes

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