Black Dyke has announced the appointment of their 2017 'Young Composer in Residence'.

19 year old Matthew Eden, who is currently studying at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester under Dr. Laura Bowler, will take up his role following worldwide interest in the position.

He takes over the role from Jonathan Bates who worked closely with 2016 Composer in Residence, Edward Gregson.

Young starter

Born in Derby, he began to study the piano at the age of 6, and started to experiment with composition soon after.

Aged 14 he entered a competition launched by the City of Birmingham Brass Band, where his three movement work, 'Fantasia for Brass' (2011) was eventually awarded 2nd prize in the 25 and under category.

Number of projects

Commenting on Matthew's appointment, Black Dyke Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs told 4BR: "It is always exciting when you can give an opportunity to a young and talented composer such as Matthew.

Matthew will be working on a number of projects with our Composer in Residence, Prof Peter Graham, although his immediate focus will be on a work to be performed by Black Dyke at the prestigious Glastonbury Festival in June."

Matthew will be working on a number of projects with our Composer in Residence, Prof Peter Graham, although his immediate focus will be on a work to be performed at the prestigious Glastonbury Festival in JuneProf Nicholas Childs

Amazing opportunity

Meanwhile, Matthew added: "I'm looking forward to working with both Black Dyke Band and Professor Graham, and I'm delighted to be given this amazing opportunity."

This initiative is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.