Page 683 - Aldeburgh Festival 2022 FINAL COVERAGE BOOK

Composer Gavin Higgins continues to champion brass band music as his latest
major work gained widespread critical acclaim following its world premiere at
the high profile Aldeburgh Festival at Snape Maltings.

His cantata, 'The Faerie Bride' was performed by the National Orchestra of
Wales conducted by Martyn Brabbins.

Otherworldly

The 'spellbinding' tale was inspired by the Welsh legend of the 'Lady of the Lake'
originally recorded in a 14th century manuscript, and was described as bringing
an "otherworldly aura"that was "lyrical and highly atmospheric"by The
Guardian's music critic Rhian Evans.

It saw the Forest of Dean composer once again link up with librettist Francesca
Simon, whom he worked with for his acclaimed Covent Garden opera, 'The

Monstrous Child'.

The premiere was broadcast live on Radio 3, where Gavin was interviewed by
presenter Nicola Hayward Thomas.

Gripping

Asked about the forthcoming Proms premiere of his 'Concerto Gross for
Orchestra and Brass Band' which will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on 8th
August, featuring the National Orchestra of Wales and Tredegar Band, he said: "I
feel extremely passionately about brass bands.

I think they are a very under-looked, under-valued, under-supported, integral
part of our musical make-up in this country. The sound is so gripping, it does
something to our British psyche."

He added: "There is a reason why brass playing in this country is so good,
because brass bands provide free music education of the highest quality."

I think they are a very under-looked, under-valued, under-

supported, integral part of our musical make-up in this country.