I have arranged many pieces for brass band over the last 15 years - ranging from popular melodies through to large-scale classical works. I have also been lucky enough to be associated with bands who have played my works both at a rehearsal and a performance level.
With the advent of modern technology it has become so much easier to write and listen to music before it even hits a stand. I use Finale (current version 2006) to arranged and produce my music and take great pleasure in using the software available today to hone my music.
However this new techology does have the down side of the advent of more 'mass produced' brass band arrangements coming into force over the last ten years. I try to avoid the "copy and paste" mentality of some modern arrangements and to think of the individual players who will be performing my music. I like to think my music gives the players enjoyment as well as the audience.
A list of my works will follow, and there are some samples which you can listen to on this site.
The brass band's strength - it's homogenous sound - is also its weakness when it comes to composing for brass bands. The challenge is to write music which is suitable for bands, but without using the same sounds throughout. The brass band has some interesting sound pallets to draw from for those who are creative enough to realise them.
I have written a body of works for bands - some experimental, some the architypal road marches. Most pieces have been for personal enjoyment only, although a few I have managed to make public. I have also been commissioned to compose works for brass band - each with their unique challenges.
