*
banner

Higgins adds to the playlist

Composer Gavin Higgins was joined by bandleader and saxophonist Emma Rawicz to explore yet more musical DNA links on BBC Radio 4

Higgins
  Gavin Higgins was joined by composer and saxophonist Emma Rawicz.

Composer Gavin Higgins was back in the BBC spotlight this week with his latest appearance of the Radio 4 series 'Add to Playlist'.

The programme hosted by Jeffrey Boakye and Anna Phoebe asks guests to create a playlist that connects genres and styles, spanning eras and global trends.

It continues a journey that now covers 72 episodes that links together a shared musical DNA, which is explored and explained by the presenters and guests.

Gavin returned for the ninth series (he also appeared in the sixth) alongside bandleader, saxophonist and composer Emma Rawicz.

Muddy Waters to Peter Grimes

Taking the baton from the previous programme, Emma selected 'Mannish Boy' by Muddy Waters, which was followed by Gavin's linked choice of the 'Passacaglia' from Benjamin Britten's opera, 'Peter Grimes'.

Then comes 'Bicycle Town — Part I' by Marius Neset, 'Egyptian Reggae' by Jonathan Richman and The Modern Lovers and finally, 'Bad Reputation' by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

Other music referenced was 'Eejit' by Blazin' Fiddles, 'Concerto Grosso for Brass Band and Orchestra', Fleetwood Mac's 'Tusk', 'I'm a Man' by Bo Diddley, 'None Shall Escape the Judgement' by Earl Zero and 'I Love Rock n' Roll' by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

To enjoy:

To enjoy: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001zw60

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    


Mead

Tour marathon for Mead

September 5 • Steven Mead marks a musical milestone with a marathon Asian tour.


Boax

Bands need to tick right Boax at Registry

September 5 • Cory Band baritone player Charlie Boax has joined the Brass Band Players Registry as their new Office Administrator.


Brass Monkeys

Podcast: The Brass Monkeys — Episode 38

September 5 • The North Wales banding boys are back with more chat.


Radio

Radio: Touch of Brass

September 5 • More brass bands music to enjoy from presenters Martin Upfold and Julie Hedges.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a FRONT ROW CORNET to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Alwyn Green

LRAM, LTCL
Conductor, composer, arranger, adjudicator, teacher and soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd