*
banner

Sounds of Heaven and Earth come to the RNCM

The RNCM in Manchester is gearing up for a day of music making that encompasses the ancient and modern from heaven and earth — including the evocative sound of the Carnyx — the mouthpiece of the Gods...

CARNYX
  The day will feature the rare opportunity to hear the sound of the ancient Carnyx instrument

The Royal Northern College of Music will present its latest festival event 'Soundscapes of Heaven and Earth' on Sunday 16th June.

It will see a series of formal concerts and 'pop-up' performances throughout the day at the venue, with repertoire spanning the centuries from the ancient to the contemporary — including the evocative sound of the Carnyx, the Iron Age 'Mouthpiece of the Gods' to the most modern electronic soundtracks of the 21st century.

MacMillan to Berlioz

Works from composers such as James MacMillan, Adam Gorb, Bart Wirtz and Steve Martland will sit next to Hector Berlioz, Dimtri Shostakovich and Gunter Schuller, whilst a series of sound installations will be performed in unconventional settings featuring various ensemble groups.

The trio of formal concerts will be held under the titles, 'Triumph, Glory and Heroes', 'The Soundscape of Industrial Man' and 'The Company of Heaven', whilst there will also be a recital feature entitled, 'The Voice of the Gods' which will see performances of baroque and romantic repertoire played on period brass instruments.

Carnyx

There will also be that rare opportunity to hear the sound of the Carnyx as renowned musician John Kenny performs on its in a recital entitled, 'Multiplex' that will also encompass works for trombone, live electronics and film.

Artistic Director, Nicholas Thompson told 4BR: "Listeners can expect performances of brilliance, artistry and imagination.

There'll be fascinating stuff going on throughout the building — both in our venues and via 'pop-up' performances in public spaces where you least expect them..."

There'll be fascinating stuff going on throughout the building — both in our venues and via 'pop-up' performances in public spaces where you least expect them...Artistic Director, Nicholas Thompson

Soundscapes of Heaven and Earth


Royal Northern Festival of Music
Manchester
Sunday 16th June

To find out more go to:
https://www.rncm.ac.uk/festivals/soundscapes-of-heaven-and-earth/

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    


Sparke

All preview roads lead to the Albert Hall...

September 28 • You can hear how the competing bands are getting on with their final preparations on Philip Sparke's work ahead of the National Final at the Royal Hall this weekend.


Hobury Victoria

Results: 2026 Red Admiral Entertainment Contest

September 28 • Horbury hit double top to defeat Championship and First Section rivals in Chorley as Golborne, Blackpool Brass and Driffield Silver also secure section victories.


Blidworth

Result: 2026 NEMBBA Entertainment Contest

September 28 • Blidworth Welfare takes the entertainment honours in Darley Dale.


Bathgate

Report & Result: 2026 Fife Charities Contest

September 27 • Bathgate claims the honours in Kirkcaldy to head on a journey to the Spring Festival.


Dobcross Silver Band -

Sunday 27 September • Dobcross Band and Social Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Saddleworth Oldham OL3 5AD


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the National Finals

Tuesday 29 September • Batley Town Hall WF17 5DA


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Eagle Brass

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

Friday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

September 28 • We are looking for an ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORNET to join our ambitious friendly 1st section band.. Rehearsals on a Wednesday in our own bandroom.. Good mix of concerts and contests and an overseas trip planned.. .


Chinnor Silver

September 28 • We are looking for an ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORNET to join our ambitious friendly 1st section band.. Rehearsals on a Wednesday in our own bandroom.. Good mix of concerts and contests and an overseas trip planned.. .


East London Brass

September 24 • Percussion - East London Brass are seeking an enthusiastic percussionist to join our friendly, ambitious band. Great music, regular rehearsals and a welcoming atmosphere. Interested? Get in touch for more details!


Sandy Smith


Conductor, teacher, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd