Forton Music has established itself as a respected publisher of woodwind and brass music – covering a wide range of genres and disciplines.

They work with an extensive list of composers and arrangers and have an inclusive ethos, welcoming submissions from new as well as existing writers.

Their brass catalogue has grown over the years and now encompasses exam works to solos for trumpet through to tuba, duets, trios and quartets, small ensembles and full brass band compositions.

Emerging players

Many are aimed at emerging players, ensembles and bands -  with this neatly constructed cornet solo by John Dutton is a case in point. 

‘Lantern’  (inspired by a set of old street lights set up in his neighbour’s garden) combines the opportunity to showcase lyricism as well as technique – harking back to the type of  ‘Wiederkehr’  solos that used to be the staple fayre of entrants on the solo contest circuits. 

These were key ‘stepping-stone’ features for players with good basic technique and a sense of artistic confidence; the opening theme in this case a flowing ‘Adagio’  line that then ventures into a capricious  ‘Vivace’  (crotchet = 96) that combines triple and sharp single tonguing technique.  

Concert feature

Contrast is highlighted with a clever little 3/4  ‘Moderato’ segue that then flicks up a gear or two from 120 to 144 for an  ‘Allegro Vivace’ build to a  ‘Presto’ 168 finale that allows the opportunity for the uber-confident player to possibly opt for their own climb to a top C flourish instead of the published ‘safety net’ finish.

These were key ‘stepping-stone’ features for players with good basic technique and a sense of artistic confidence;

At a snip under 4 minutes it’s just the right length for a concert feature, whilst the simply structured band parts (perc requirements call for side drum and bass drum) will be well within the scope of a Youth or Fourth Section band. 

Clearly laid out, it comes in digital or printed format and is a nice option for a young player keen to add an effective showcase solo to their repertoire.   
 
Iwan Fox  

To purchase: https://fortonmusic.co.uk/product/the-lantern-cornet-and-brass-band/