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Classic test-pieces revisited No 4: Victorian Snapshots — On Ratcliff Highway

The the fourth of our series, Prof Steven Allen takes an in-depth look at one of the major crossover works to the banding movement that came from the Salvation Army composer Ray Steadman-Allen.

Allen
  Ray Steadman Allen's work was written in 1978

Prof Stephen Allen takes an in depth look at one of the classic works for the brass band medium — Ray Steadman Allen's 1978 work, 'Victorian Snapshots — On Ratcliff Highway'.

A 'sound picture' of one of the most colourful as well as infamous stretches of the East End area on the banks of the River Thames, brought to life in its Victorian heyday by composer Ray Steadman-Allen.

Steven looks at the remarkable work that hides its quixotic subtleties, colours and textures in plain sight for all to picture in the mind's eye... although the composer himself rather forgot about much he wrote in the work...


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udi

Results: 2026 Dutch National Championships

October 23 • There are victories for and Koperensemble de Waldsang and UDI Brass Band Oosternijkerk on the first day of competition in Utrecht.


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Regent Hall Concerts - Redbridge Brass Band

Saturday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


The Hepworth Band - Aireborough Rotary Club Annual Charity Concert

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Dobcross Silver Band - Tintwistle Band

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Regent Hall Concerts - Cliff Hardie Big Band

Thursday 29 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Northop Silver Band

October 22 • PERCUSSION PLAYER - We are a Championship Section competing band based in North East Wales. The band are friendly and ambitious, with an active contest and concert diary.


Cambrian Brass

October 22 • We are always happy to hear from anyone interested in joining our friendly, supportive band, whether you are returning to banding, looking for a new challenge, or have moved to Aberystwyth for university.


West Yorkshire Police Band

October 22 • BBb bass and back row cornets are sought to complete our line-up. We are a well supported band with a unique calendar of events including foreign travel. We rehearse at Carr Gate nr Wakefield on Mondays and Thursdays.


Stuart Black

BA (Hons) Music
Conductor, Teacher, Flugel soloist


               

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