The Scottish Brass Band Association has revealed that composer Simon Dobson's new test piece for the Scottish Open Championships later this year will be called ‘…and when the river told…’

Novel

Although the work is being used to help celebrate the city of Perth’s 800th Royal Charter anniversary, the inspiration for the composition comes from the composer’s love of the literature of the German writer Hermann Hesse, and his 1922 novel, ‘Siddartha’.

In the book, the main character Siddartha finally finds his personal spiritual inspiration and enlightenment through mediation as a ferryman by a great river following a long journey from his home in Nepal4BR

Spiritual enlightenment

In the book, the main character Siddartha, finally finds his personal spiritual inspiration and enlightenment through mediation as a ferryman by a great river following a long journey from his home in Nepal.

The book, with its Buddhist allegories and philosophies became increasingly popular in the USA in the mid 1960’s.

Worthwhile

Last month Simon travelled from his Plymouth home to seek inspiration at first hand from historic Perth and told the SBBA website: "It was very worthwhile for me to see and feel the city at first hand. I looked around the museum, sat by the Tay and walked round much of the city, as well as spending some time in the wonderful Perth Concert Hall to check out the acoustic."

Three movements

The three movement work evokes the great flood of 1209, the ‘Battle of the Clans’ at North Inch and the evolution of the industry of the city from whiskey and glass making to the new digital age.

The piece, played in one continuous movement will last around 13 minutes.

Further detail can be found at the Scottish Brass Band Association website: http://www.sbba.org.uk/