Brass Band

Heritage was commissioned by the Brass Band of the Western Reserve (Dr Keith M. Wilkinson, director) to celebrate their 20th anniversary in 2017. They gave the premiere during a celebratory concert in October that year. Philip Sparke had previously written an overture, Fanfare and Celebration, for the band’s 15th anniversary so it was agreed that the new piece would be a grand concert march in the tradition of Elgar and Walton.

Heritage opens with a brief introduction before the march’s long main theme is presented in subdued tones. This is taken up by the full band, adding a tenor counter melody, and followed by a bridge passage, which leads to a change of key. Textures are fragmented and the music passes through a variety of keys before the traditional trio section follows on baritone and euphoniums. This is repeated, again with a tenor counter melody. A repeat of previous motifs leads back to a return of the main theme, followed by a short closing coda.