The first study of the performance practice, repertoire and context of the modern 'brass ensemble' in the musical world. Whereas the British 'brass band' originated in the nineteenth century and rapidly developed into a nationwide working-class movement, the perceived modern 'brass ensemble' has a less clear foundation and identity. This book is the first to focus exclusively on the performance, practice, repertoire and context of the 'brass ensemble' in the musical world. Following World War II, the brass quintet and other orchestral groupings emerged in the United States and Europe, with musical customs established by professional players playing orchestral instruments. These groups initially played a combination of the music of Gabrieli and his contemporaries as well as newly commissioned works. By the late twentieth century, however, repertory spanned works by Elliott Carter, Maxwell Davies and Lutoslawski, together with music that integrated jazz, commercial elements, and landmark transcriptions. At the book's heart is the story of the London-based, internationally acclaimed, Philip Jones Brass Ensemble. But this is not a story of one ensemble, as the 'brass ensemble' can be defined in several forms. The Modern Brass Ensemble in Twentieth-Century Britain offers a comprehensive account by an author and performer who was involved in many of the key developments of the modern 'brass ensemble'.

About the Author
JOHN MILLER has played the trumpet professionally for five decades, including memberships of the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble, the Philharmonia Orchestra and the Wallace Collection brass ensemble. In addition, he is a teacher and lecturer at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester.

Reviews
Miller's writing style is clear and informative, bringing an inclusive, contemporary view to a previously overlooked subject in musical history. He speaks from valuable personal experience in addition to his extensive research, which offers an enthusiastic and assuredly confident tone. -- Lucy Pankhurst * NABMSA Reviews *
It offers an ordered and well-argued account of a branch of British music history that has not previously had such exposure, and it is unlikely that the topic will have more expert attention. * MUSIC & LETTERS *



Book Information
ISBN 9781783277346
Author John Miller
Format Hardback
Page Count 220
Imprint The Boydell Press
Publisher Boydell & Brewer Ltd