Foden's have announced the appointment of Dr. Peter Meechan as their new Musical Associate.

Increasing profile

The former Black Dyke ‘Young Composer in Residence’ has enjoyed an increasing profile in both the brass and wind band spheres in recent years and is currently in the USA where he is teaching and lecturing in Des Moines, Kansas City and Chicago.

Foden's approached the composer with the specific role of arranging music for the band's busy concert schedule and will see him join Foden's 'creative stable' alongside composer in residence Andy Scott.

Exceptional

Andy told 4BR: "Pete is an exceptional musician and with this appointment Foden's takes a further step into the creative world, displaying a commitment to new repertoire. I’m delighted that he is to become part of the Foden's team and look forward to working with him."

Band Chairman, John Barber added: "We are very pleased that Peter has accepted our invitation and we are looking forward to a long working relationship with him."

It’s now ten years since Foden’s premiered my first major work for brass band, so it is even more special that our new association will commence at the 2011 Festival of BrassDr Peter Meechan

USA

4BR caught up with the composer in the USA, where he is currently in the middle of a three week tour of major universities and educational establishments working with leading American composers and bands.

"'I’m absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity of working with Foden's and Andy Scott," he said. "It’s now ten years since Foden’s premiered my first major work for brass band, so it is even more special that our new association will commence with a performance by Fodens, conducted by James Gourlay, at the 2011 Festival of Brass."

Acclaim

The news comes at the end of a busy period for the composer, which has seen him work on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Last weekend he was in Switzerland where his new work, ‘The Legend of King Arthur’ was used by Brass Band Burgermusik Luzern at the Swiss National Championships to critical and popular acclaim.

Great response

"I’ve had a great response to the piece," he told 4BR. "It really struck a chord in Montreux with listeners and I was blown over by the response after the band played. I’m really enjoying myself at the moment, despite the travelling, and have plenty of new projects to get stuck into over the next few months, including the premiere of a new percussion concerto for Mark Langdon of Foden’s."