Philip Wilby's 'Astralis', the major work commissioned by Whitburn Band for use at the 2023 European Championships in Malmo, is to be used as the set-test at this year's Scottish Open Championship.

It takes its inspiration from the images of the incredible objects, bodies and structures of the universe such as the famous 'Pillars of Creation' which have been captured by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), since its launch in December 2021.

Five sections

The composer distils these into five joined sections — the first of which is a 'Prologue' entitled, 'Fire and Ice'. Following the chorale Wilby states that he composed "a soundtrack to one of the JWST zoomed images, moving through space and time towards a distant and very beautifully lit nebula."

The second section explores 'deep field' imagery — infinite mysterious sources that have sent their light to our eyes hundreds of thousands of years before.

A 'Black Hole' section mirrors the inexorable draw of matter and light into ultimate darkness, whilst 'Nebula' explodes thematic matter to reform into new material and new worlds — the music reflecting that iconic image of 'The Pillars of Creation'.

An 'Epilogue' — 'Ad Astra' celebrates man's desire to the explore the universe, its stars and the countless opportunities that the images the James Webb Space Telescope has brought us.

Generous presentation

Speaking about the commission and the generous presentation to the Scottish Open, Whitburn's Band Manager Charlie Farren said: "At the heart of our funding for this commission from Creative Scotland was the intention to the give the work to the Scottish Brass Band Association (SBBA) to be performed by the bands in Scotland.

After the positive campaign in support Whitburn attending the European Championships, we are delighted that 'Astralis' has been accepted by SBBA for use at the Scottish Open."

He added: "We are thankful for the help and support SBBA has given our band over the years and we look forward to hearing all the bands perform Philip's fantastic music in November."

At the heart of our funding for this commission from Creative Scotland was the intention to the give the work to the Scottish Brass Band AssociationWhitburn Band

Scottish gift

4BR was informed that Scottish bands participating at the event in November will be gifted a score and a full set of parts of the work.

SBBA President Carrie Boax commented: "Having enjoyed the premiere of 'Astralis' in Malmo, I can't wait to hear many fine performances of this extraordinary work at the contest on Sunday 25th November as part of our Scottish Festival of Brass in Perth Concert Hall."

Support and entry

She added: "We are also delighted with Besson's continued financial backing of the contest and also Creative Scotland for funding. Furthermore, I would like to thank Whitburn Band for working with us to support the event and our Scottish bands in this way."

The closing date for entries into the Scottish Open is 1 August. Scottish bands wishing to avail themselves of the offer of a complimentary full set of 'Astralis' music should email Carrie Boax at: sbbapresident@gmail.com