*
banner

Fantastic Rome reception for Sparke premiere

Philip Sparke's latest Euphonium Concerto has gained a fantastic response after its world premiere given by Steven Mead.

Italy
  Steven gave the world premiere with the Italian Brass Band in Rome

Besson euphonium star Steven Mead recently returned from a critically acclaimed concert weekend in Rome where he premiered Philip Sparke's new 'Euphonium Concerto'.

Titled, 'Omaggio' it is the composer's fourth major concerto for the instrument, with the premiere given in collaboration with the Italian Brass Band directed by Filippo Cangiamila.

The concert was enthusiastically received by a packed audience at the Auditorium Delle Fornaci, just a few hundred metres from Rome's iconic St. Peter's Square, whilst the event itself gained widespread media attention.

Commission

Commissioned by Steven, 'Omaggio' was composed in the second half of 2021. He has previously given premieres of Philip's three other concerto works over the last 30 years.

It not only marked a further musical bond between the composer and artist, but also marked Steven's 60th birthday. It was written as a tribute to his father Rex Mead who died in January 2021, aged 90.

Steven told 4BR: "Rex was arguably my most ardent supporter, adviser and critic, as well as being a wonderful father. He and my mother Sylvia cared so much for their children, planning and organising everything around us.

His was a strong faith and he spent all his brass band playing years within the Salvation Army, playing horn, baritone, trombone, then finally for his last 10 years, the euphonium, so I felt it appropriate the new concerto reflected that."

The reception at the end from the audience was very special indeed and will live with me for a very long timeSteven Mead

Timeline

Steven revealed that the work is something of a timeline of his father's life; from early sporting endeavours to marriage, children and maturity with his beloved Sylvia always by his side.

"The thread is provided by the use of the hymn tune 'Helmsley',"Steven said, "which was often sung in services and was a favourite of his. It makes for a very emotional moment towards the end of the work celebrating a fine life of giving and love."

Steven added: "The reception at the end from the audience was very special indeed and will live with me for a very long time.

Italian audiences have always been so supportive and it was therefore wonderful to have given the premiere with the outstanding Italian Brass Band right in the heart of Rome."

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    


Brighouse

Report & Result: 2025 British Open Championship

September 7 • A fait accompli for Brighouse & Rastrick and Prof David King as they are inspired by Shakespeare and Prokofiev to claim the happiest of Symphony Hall endings on 'Star Crossed Lovers'.


Band Supplies

Band Supplies at the British Open

September 6 • Go up and meet one of the best blokes in the banding business world and he will make sure you get all the help you need for the best deals.


4BR Review

Recap on the 4BR British Open preview

September 6 • If you missed the live broadcast British Open preview on 4BR then you can just click and enjoy it again ahead of the action at Symphony Hall.


Mead

Why not be a judge at the Open this year?

September 6 • If you are following the 'Sar Crossed Lovers' action at Symphony Hall today, let us know who you think has won.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Otley Brass Association

September 7 • Front Row Cornet. -. Otley Brass Band are keen to recruit a 5th member for their front row cornets (position negotiable).. . This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving band of 30+ players under the leadership of our newly appointed MD, Martyn Beecham


wantage silver band

September 6 • Wantage Band (Championship Section) have vacancies for a Bb BASS PLAYER and THIRD CORNET to complete their line up. Plenty of great concerts from now until Christmas with the Welsh Open, L&SC Area, British Open Grand Shield and Whit Friday in 2026.


wantage silver band

September 6 • Positions vacant: wantage silver band: Wantage Community Brass (non-competitive) are looking to recruit a new Musical Director. The group is unique in that the average age is almost certainly around 70! They rehearse on Tue from 4pm and Thu from 7pm.


Gordon Eddison

B Ed (Hons). Member AoBBA.
Conductor and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd