Wychavon Festival of Brass commissioned Vale of Evesham composer, Dan Price in 2018 to compose ‘Wychavon Sketches’, a twelve-minute piece of brand-new music for brass bands in four movements to commemorate 30th anniversary of Wychavon Festival of Brass in 2020.

Evesham’s Henrician Theatre was the venue for the world premiere of ‘Wychavon Sketches’ It formed the highlight of a two-hour concert hosted by Councillor Robert Raphael with Evesham’s Avonbank Brass Band and Langley Brass from Oldbury in the West Midlands. The audience included Mayors and Civic Leaders from across Worcestershire.

The event, opened by Avonbank Band, under the musical directorship of Colin Herbert, was the band’s first indoor public concert since before the covid-19 lockdown and the first outing for the bands brand new uniforms.

The Championship rated Langley Band concluded the programme with a selection of old favourites and the world premiere of ‘Wychavon Sketches’.

The work seeks to evoke images of the Worcestershire countryside and draws inspiration from Worcestershire’s most famous composer Sir Edward Elgar.

The piece begins with Jousts, drawing on the dramatic events at the battles of Evesham and Worcester. Continues with Maypoles and Market Gardens, reflecting the fertile Vale of Evesham and the repetitious peels of Evesham’s iconic Bell Tower.

The River Avon celebrates the natural countryside and the one constant in an ever-changing landscape, and finally, Contest Day, a spritely and light-hearted finale reflecting the excitement and nerves of Festival of Brass contest day.

Councillor Raphael, was thrilled with the performance: “The event took place in a beautiful community theatre and we were privileged to listen to world class music from two very talented bands, including a piece of original music. Great things happened in our corner of Worcestershire tonight.”

Dr Val Trim, chairman of the Wychavon Festival of Brass was also very happy with the event and was particularly pleased that Wychavon District Council has recognised the work done by the Festival and the contribution it makes to the local economy.

Wychavon Sketches – Parts & Score available from:

WYCHAVON SKETCHES – Parts & Score – Just Music – Brass Band Music and CDs