The City Hall, Hull

On Tuesday 30th October 2007, the Band took part in a joint concert and lecture at the City Hall, Hull. The lecture was the 2007 Wilberforce Lecture, given on this occasion by Dr John Sentamu, the Archbishop of York. Prior to the lecture the Band presented a short concert, which showcased the Band and its soloists. The programme chosen, and conducted by the Band's Musical Director Jim Davies, showed the band's versatility, technical ability, and musicianship, all well received by the audience in a packed City Hall.

The performance was introduced by the Bishop of Hull, Richard Frith. Starting with the March Death or Glory by R. B. Hall, the Band immediately showed its softer side by performing Howard Snell's arrangement of Winter from Vivaldi's Four Seasons. The first soloist for the evening was the Band's Principal Cornettist Steve Rudhall, who performed Mark Freeh's arrangement of the Harry James Carnival of Venice.

Following this the Band played a selection from the Mask Of Zorro, before it was time to introduce the second of the evenings soloists, Principal Trombonist Mark Unsworth, who performed Darrol Barry's ever popular arrangement of the Wind Beneath My Wings.

The last piece before the lecture, was Mark Freeh's sparkling arrangement of Ol' Man River which gave Percussionist Jonathan Chapman the opportunity to display his talents.

Following the Wilberforce Lecture came the main part of the evening so far as the Band were concerned, the World Premiere performance of Philip Wilby's Reformers. This piece was commissioned by the Band with financial assistance from Kingston Upon Hull City Council, and commemorates the 200th Anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act, and the leadership of the Reforming William Wilberforce. The idea for the piece came after the Band received an email in late 2005, highlighting the forthcoming 2007 Wilberforce Festival. Trombonist Mark Unsworth, submitted a report to the City Council, and after several meetings with the Lead Officer for Wilberforce 2007 Mitch Upfold, succeeded in obtaining the funding to enable the commissioning of the piece from Professor Philip Wilby, and also organised with Mitch this evenings concert.

Philip Wilby was given the challenge that the music should reflect the four themes of the City Council's Wilberforce Festival - Pride, Freedom, Belief and Change. Philip wrote about this commission. “Although he was involved in many charitable projects, not least establishing the RSPCA, and London’s National Gallery, it was Wilberforce’s successful campaign to abolish the slave trade, which has secured his reputation. This new composition is inspired by his work, and his belief in the saving power of evangelism to change prevailing attitudes and establish freedom for all. John Newton, sometime slave captain, was one of Wilberforce’s mentors in early life, and composed many well-known hymns. ‘Amazing Grace’ has become the text most associated with black musicians, and forms the centrepiece of my score. Wilberforce was based in Clapham, and his rallies and marches were a regular feature of the ‘Clapham Saints’ in the early years of the 19^th Century. Accordingly the outer movements contain echoes of these marches, as well as some African ‘call and response’ drumming. Originally conceived as a work to play its part in a major civic occasion, Reformers contains some features which may be thought to be unusual additions to the standard brass band formation. The melody of ‘Amazing Grace’ is here played off stage, whilst the climax of the work is marked by the dramatic entry of the famous City Hall Organ. The emphasis of my music has been on the positive aspects of Abolition rather than the negative issues surrounding slavery. Although it contains some reflective aspects, the defining message of Reformers is triumphant.”

The performance was made even more special as Philip Wilby was given the opportunity to address the audience before the piece started. During this address Philip was able to give the audience an insight into the piece, and his thoughts about the composition. Following this Philip joined the Band for the performance by playing the magnificent City Hall organ during the premiere. At the conclusion of the performance, the audience gave a very positive reaction by giving the Band and Composer a standing ovation. A delighted Philip Wilby told the Band, "What a success! Definitely the band at the centre of the community! I couldn't have been more pleased! A standing ovation! Thanks for all the hard work and preparation!"

Pictures by BGA Photography

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