Paul Hindmarsh's long awaited biography of composer Wilfred Heaton will be launched at the forthcoming RNCM International Brass Band Festival.

Following extensive research 'Wilfred Heaton: His Life — His Music' uncovers the life and work of a composer (1918-2000) the author describes as "a private but complex man behind the music", who returned to being a fill time composer only in later life, relating that he felt that "the creative impulse never leaves you."

Recollections and analysis

Brought together with huge academic rigour, the book is formed in two parts — the recollections of family, friends and colleagues and from surviving correspondence and archive documents, and that of detailed musical analysis and commentary.

Writing his appreciation of it, composer Edward Gregson stated: "A book such as this, on one of the most important composers in the 20th century to have written for brass bands, is long overdue.

Paul Hindmarsh does not pull his punches in his microscopic assessment of his subject; but in the end what shines through is the author's real affection for Heaton, as well as an immense respect for his music — something many of us share."

The book will be officially launched at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival and will be available to purchase at the World of Brass trade stand over the weekend4BR

Launch

The book (UK price — £30.00) will be officially launched at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival and will be available to purchase at the World of Brass trade stand over the weekend.

Further purchasing details will follow.