Edward Gregson’s Symphony in two movements was the set work for the National Brass Band Final last Saturday at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, where 19 bands performed the work in front of an enthusiastic audience. The winning band was Desford Colliery Band from the Midlands, with Black Dyke Band from Yorkshire close behind in 2nd place. The Symphony was received with critical acclaim, separately called ‘a masterpiece’ and ‘ground-breaking’. The work has been recorded by the Black Dyke Band and is available on the Doyen label.

Photo: Black Dyke Band, conductor Nicholas Childs, before their performance of Symphony …

Edward Gregson was recently presented with a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ by Brass Bands England for his contribution as a composer to the brass band repertoire over the past 60 years.   The award ceremony took place at the famous Miner’s Hall in Durham.  Katrina Marzella-Wheeler, a former principal player with the Black Dyke Band, now embarked on a successful conducting career, was presented with the conducting award.

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