This weekend, Paul Lovatt-Cooper will be racking up the air miles as he flies back and forth across Europe to try and catch up with the latest performances of some of his new works for brass.

Major works

The Dutch National Brass Band Championships and the Swiss National Brass Band Championships take place over the weekend, with two major works from Paul, one a world premier, being performed.

Invitation

Paul’s 'The Dark Side of the Moon' has been selected by the Dutch Federation of Brass Bands as the set work for their Third Section which will take place this Friday evening, and Paul has accepted an invitation to attend the contest as their VIP guest.

Paul will travel with his father (to whom the piece is dedicated) to Groningen, Holland to enjoy listening to the performances of his work.

That though marks just the start of a whistle stop trip, as Paul then flies back to England the next day to enjoy the annual Black Dyke Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday.

I just hope I can get over the jet lag and remember where I am and what language I have to talk in!Paul Lovatt-Cooper

Antartic trip

Straight after, he then flies to Montreux in Switzerland to hear the world premier of his championship section test piece 'Antarctica' which is being performed by one of the competing bands as their own-choice piece in the Swiss Championships.

British Premiere

'Antarctica' is dedicated to Paul’s teacher and friend Peter Graham, and will receive its world premiere. The piece paints a musical portrait of the continent, featuring its great beauty and in contrast, its barren, harsh weather conditions.

'Antarctica' will be given its UK premier in 2009 when it is performed by the Black Dyke Band at the Festival of Brass in January at the Royal Northern College of Music.

Looking forward

Paul told 4BR: "I’m looking forward to an action packed weekend. Friday its Holland, Saturday its England and Sunday its Switzerland.

"It will be great to hear the various performances of ‘Dark Side’ and the world premier of ‘Antarctica’ all sandwiched in between the Black Dyke dinner which is one of the bands favourite gatherings with everyone looking stunning in their dinner suits and ball gowns! I just hope I can get over the jet lag and remember where I am and what language I have to talk in!"