Music: United We Stand

 Composer, Paul McGhee reviews the latest work from the pen of Dean Jones, published by Lake Music.

 United We Stand is a large-scale work for brass band, with optional narration by British composer, Dean Jones.

The piece was written as a tribute to all those who lost their lives during the tragic events on September 11 2001, and in remembrance of the courage of those who survived and were bereaved.

Aiming not to convey solely the emotions of that day, United We Stand depicts particular events that took place - creating an evolving musical narrative of how that fateful day unfolded, and how hope and dignity somehow managed to emerge from such tragic circumstances.

The piece is in eight clearly defined sections that work - with or without the narration - in taking the listener through this musical journey, from despair and fear, to the eventual climax, when bravery and courage emerged.

The usual brass band ‘end’ chairs are called upon to lead us through the musical narrative, but achieving the required coherence of the ensemble is where the music really rewards - creating sounds and textures that are rich in both melodic and harmonic content. Whilst the musical journey is one that begins with great loss, the powerful build to the finish revels in all that brass bands do well, leading to a finale that is both a powerful and fitting tribute to all of the 9/11 victims.

Brass bands have never been afraid to take on such serious subject matter, but it will take a good, confident band to successfully convey the emotion and gravitas that runs throughout this piece. However, with attention to the details contained within the score, United We Stand offers many rewards for both performers and listeners.

Dean Jones has created a piece of substance that deals respectfully with its hard-hitting and emotive subject matter, leaving the brass band world with a thought-provoking addition to its concert repertoire.

At approximately 11 minutes in duration, I’m sure that this piece could also find its way onto the contest platform at some stage in the future.