*
banner

Balsom inspires high tide in Bristol

A brand new fanfare to herald the start of the Bristol Prom season has been picked by a panel of musical experts including Alison Balsom and Philip Harper.

Alison Balsom
 

Cory MD Philip Harper has helped to choose the new fanfare that will be used to open the 2015 Bristol Proms season next week.

At the Top of the Tide

Entitled 'At the Top of the Tide' by composer David Mitcham, it is believed to be the first official 'Fanfare' for a UK city, and will premiered across several iconic Bristol landmarks.

The competition was launched by trumpeter Alison Balsom (above) in March and attracted 40 entries that were eventually assessed by Alison alongside a panel of leading artistic personalities from the city and the Cory MD.

Winning entry

The winning entry was inspired by what the composer called 'Bristol's inextricable links to the sea' and its inaugural performance at Bristol Old Vic will herald the start of Bristol Proms 2015, which runs from 27th July — 1st August.

As well as his fanfare becoming the first official fanfare for a UK city, David Mitcham also won £1,000, whilst his composition will also be broadcast on Classic FM in addition to the live performances.

I hope the fanfare represents the rich diversity of Bristol, its maritime and industrial heritage as well as being a celebration of the spirit of the city and the energy it will carry into the futureComposer, David Mitcham

Thrilled

The composer, who has worked extensively for the BBC Natural History Unit based in Bristol told 4BR: "I'm thrilled that 'At the Top of the Tide' has been chosen to open Bristol Proms 2015.

I hope the fanfare represents the rich diversity of Bristol, its maritime and industrial heritage as well as being a celebration of the spirit of the city and the energy it will carry into the future."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Regional Championships

2027 regional championship dates confirmed

October 31 • There will be eight contests over four weekends as bands look to book their places for London and York.


Amboise

Dutch champion aims for Amboise and French title

October 31 • Brass Band Schoonhoven will look to add the French Open title to its CV as they head to Amboise next May.


Jon Daw

50 years of service celebrated for Daw

October 31 • The well known tuba player Jon Daw has notched up 50 years of Gloucester banding dedication.


Wychavon

Full day of entertainment at Wychavon

October 30 • If you are looking to enjoy a full day of brass band entertainment then pop into Evesham from 10.00am onwards and you won't be disappointed.


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 30 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Amersham Band

Saturday 31 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The KNDS Fairey Band

Saturday 31 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 November • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Band of the RAF Regiment Brass Ensemble

Friday 20 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Tintwistle Band

October 29 • We are looking for front row cornet players to help complete the team. We are a second section band and rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle. We perform a variety of concerts all year round.


Olney Brass

October 27 • We are a friendly and committed THIRD SECTION band looking for: - CORNETS (Front & Back Row) - SOLO HORN - Eb BASS Engagements and concerts in the Olney/Milton Keynes area. Rehearsals in Milton Keynes MK15 (5 mins from J14 of M1) on Tuesdays 7.45-9.45.


St John's Band (Mossley)

October 25 • After a brilliant 1st place at Rochdale Contest, we are looking for an Eb BASS player to join our friendly 4th section band based in Mossley, Tameside.


Nicholas B. Hudson

FTCL LGSMD (Hons)
Musician | Trombonist | Educator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd