*
banner

Smoke Sketches sets imaginations alight at Salford

The new work by young composer Daniel Hall certainly made a huge impression on performers and audience alike at the National Youth Championships — and you can hear why too.

wARDLE
  The breathtaking winning performance was made by Wardle Academy Youth Band

The outstanding winning performance by Wardle Academy Youth Band of composer Daniel Hall's new composition, 'Smoke Sketches', has been officially recorded by Paul Hindmarsh, Consultant Editor Faber Music Ltd, at the recent National Youth Championships of Great Britain.

Visions and images

'Smoke Sketches' is an 8 minute work that takes its inspiration from the art of divination — interpreting visions and images from the smoke of an open fire, and was used as the set-test in the Intermediate Section.

The three movement work, comprising sections, 'Into the Blaze', 'A Lonesome Ember' and 'Spark of Light', was written specifically for the event, but is also already being seen as one that could easily be used at Fourth Section level with its energetic jazz and blues character.

Inspired

In congratulating all 11 bands at the contest, Daniel added a special mention for Wardle's performance, saying: "Never have I ever been so inspired by a youth ensemble's performance; the amount of detail and attention to character was immense; thank you all so much!"

The music is available by special purchase from Faber Music Ltd. and will be published in Faber Music Band Series in due course.

'Smoke Sketches' is an 8 minute work that takes its inspiration from the art of divination — interpreting visions and images from the smoke of an open fire, and was used as the set-test in the Intermediate Section4BR

To hear the music go to:

https://soundcloud.com/paul-hindmarsh-music/smoke-sketches-daniel-hall-wardle-academy-youth-bandlee-rigg

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    


NYBBGB

Dreams realised with NYBBGB Children's Band

August 2 • The talented players of the NYBBGB Children's Band displayed their musical dreams in full on their annual course.


Whitburn

Whitburn to build with new sponsorship

August 2 • The Scottish Champion has announced a new sponsorship agreement with a leading property company led by a proud former player.


Friezeland

Friezland set to enjoy mini Man tour

August 2 • Friezland Brass is currently enjoying meeting up with new musical friends for a trio of Isle of Man concerts this weekend.


Brass Monkeys

Podcast: The Brass Monkeys — Episode 13

August 2 • More chat with a Welsh accent from the trio of Brass Monkeys.


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


The Lindley Band - Parp and a Pint

Wednesday 6 August • 14a Holly Bank Road. Lindley. Huddersfield . West Yorkshire HD3 3 JE


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Uckfield Concert Brass - Eastbourne Bandstand 1812 Concert

Wednesday 27 August • Eastbourne Bandstand, Lower Grand Parade, Eastbourne. BN21 3AD


Cheltenham Silver Band

August 2 • Musical Director : Cheltenham Silver Academy Band. . Following the relocation of our current conductor we are looking for a progressive, passionate and dedicated individual to lead our Academy Band, and to support our continued improvement.


Usk Brass Band

August 1 • After a successful promotion to 1st section, Usk Brass Band are looking to fill the positions of assistant principal cornet, back row and drum kit. We rehearse on a Tuesday evening in our band room in the heart of Usk and guarantee you a warm welcome!


Croy Silver Band

August 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but always welcomes enquiries for any section of the band.


Sandy Smith


Conductor, teacher, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd