'Sand and Stars' written by French composer Thierry Deleruyelle has been announced as the test piece for the 169th British Open Championships, which will take place at Symphony Hall in Birmingham on Saturday 9th September.
The work is the fourth in a chronological series marking each decade of the 20th century, and follows 'Fraternity' (1906); 'No Man's Land' (First World War) and 'Crazy Twenties'.
Journey
It is inspired by the fateful journey undertaken by French writer and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupery (1900-1944), who hoped to break the record for a flight between Paris and Saigon in 1935.
Unfortunately, 20 hours after take-off he and his co-pilot crashed in the Libyan Desert near the Nile Delta, where he believed they would perish in "the wind, the sand and the stars."
In a four day attempt to walk to safety they miraculously came across a Bedouin traveller and were saved, his story retold in the memoir 'Wind, Sand and Stars', which in part inspired his best-selling novella, 'The Little Prince'.
Significant
A spokesperson for the British Open Championships told 4BR: "Thierry Deleruyelle has become one of the most significant composers writing for the modern brass band movement and we are delighted to be able to showcase his latest major work.
Following the success of 'Fraternity' at the British Open in 2017, and in seeking further informed opinion about this major composition we feel 'Sand and Stars' will provide a substantial test of musicianship for the competing bands and a wonderful listening experience for the audience at Symphony Hall."
4BR understands that the work will be made available for purchase from the publishers De Haske Leonard from May 15th. It is also understood that the work is also be utilised at other National Championships in Europe later in the year.
It is inspired by the fateful journey undertaken by French writer and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupery, who hoped to break the record for a flight between Paris and Saigon in 19354BR
Tickets
Tickets for the 169th British Open at Symphony Hall will go on general sale from Symphony Hall Office on Friday 26th May. Further details will be announced.
