Let the Pageantry begin!

David Read MBE performed the 2017 UK top section Regional test-piece, Pageantry, as principal cornet with GUS (Footwear) Band under the baton of the great Harry Mortimer. He later conducted the work for a BBC broadcast with Cambridge Co-operative Band before going on to adjudicate it at the 1997 European Championships, at which five bands performed Herbert Howell’s work as their ‘own-choice’ test. In the December/January edition of BBW, David provides the historical context of Pageantry and shares his thoughts about this ‘iconic’ work

The Music Panel is to be congratulated on the selection of this iconic work for the Championship Section of the British Regional Championships, in early 2017. Commissioned for the 1934 British Open Championship held at Belle Vue, Manchester, and dedicated to John Henry Iles and The Worshipful Company of Musicians, many believe Pageantry to be one of the finest test-pieces ever written for brass band.

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Read this test-piece preview in full, featured in December/January BBW, by subscribing to BBW Digital. Alternatively, subscribe to the printed magazine delivered by post: £40 (UK); £68 (Europe); £81 (Rest of the World)