The world premiere of a new work by Cornish composer Paul Saggers formed the centrepiece of the recent Christmas Course Concert of the Cornwall Youth Band.

The Great Storm Cat

'The Great Storm Cat' was written by the former band member and current cornet player in the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Plymouth.

It was directed by Dr Stephen Cobb, whilst his son Philip, Principal Trumpet of the London Symphony Orchestra, wowed the packed audience at Truro High School for Girls as a brilliant guest soloist.

Musical study

Fresh from their Christmas celebrations the 40 young musicians aged between 10 and 21, gathered on December 27th for four days of extensive musical study and rehearsal, culminating in the concert featuring repertoire chosen by Stephen and Resident Conductor, Darren Hawken.

It included music by another former CYBB member, Goff Richards as well as Malcolm Arnold's 'Little Suite for Brass', in the presence of his daughter Katherine.

Salvation Army repertoire was included with arrangements by Olaf Ritman, Kenneth Downie and Steven Ponsford and original pieces by Peter Graham and Edward Gregson.

As well as coaching the young cornet players, Philip dazzled the audience with a selection of solo items including 'Flourish' by Paul Sharman and the rarely heard 'Songs in the Heart' by Erik Leidzen4BR

Dazzling

As well as coaching the young cornet players, Philip dazzled the audience with a selection of solo items including 'Flourish' by Paul Sharman and the rarely heard 'Songs in the Heart' by Erik Leidzen.