Trombonists Brett Baker and Paul Woodward will be travelling to New York next week to record solos with the New York Staff Band as part of a project to showcase the music of composer Dorothy Gates.

Dorothy, who is originally from Belfast, is the Music Editor & Composer-in-Residence for the Territorial Music Department of the Salvation Army in New York.

New work

The recording will include a brand new duet entitled, ‘The First Step’ by Joy Webb, as well as an arrangement of ‘Come into Our World’, another Joy Webb song initially arranged for Brett over a decade ago.

The Bandmaster of the NYSB told 4BR: “Our players are certainly looking forward to re-connecting with Brett and Paul.

Brett (above) has been associated with the band for many years and was our soloist for our 120th Anniversary Concert, whilst Paul recently served on the faculty at Star Lake Music Camp which included a number of members of the band.

Dorothy's arrangements will come to life with these two highly talented trombonists."

Looking forward

Meanwhile Brett added: “I’m really looking forward to working with the New York Staff Band again. I have enjoyed a close musical relationship with them over many years going to Star Lake Music Camp in 1999.”

Paul echoed Brett’s sentiments: “We have both featured solos by Dorothy Gates in our own programme repertoire and we are thrilled to have been asked to be a part of this exciting project with the New York Staff Band.”

Dorothy's arrangements will come to life with these two highly talented trombonistsNew York Staff Band

Soloists

Paul will feature with Montclair Citadel Band whilst in the area prior the recording, whilst Brett will travel to Maine with the NYSB to perform with them in an annual festival.