
I have many friends in Lydbrook Band and it was a privilege during lockdown to gather their thoughts about what 'time' meant to them - around 20 hours of Zoom conversations! - and to spend my time creating River of Time with their contributions as inspiration. Rhys Trimbles' evocative narration and Gary Andrews' beautiful illustrations are a joy.
River of Time was inspired by the River Wye and 'time', and written in 2020. Over half of Lydbrook Band are partners or live in the same households; the music was written with this in mind, the players performing and recording together and the music incorporating freer 'cadenzas' to generate musical shape and flow within the regular click track framework.
River of Time was commissioned by Lydbrook Band, part of a wider Lydbrook Band project for the Wye Valley River Festival 2020, and funded by Arts Council England.

Some of the best brass musicians in the world, at the peak of their powers, each presenting a programme of contemporary and traditional repertoire, along with major solo works, effortlessly linked by the inimitable Frank Renton.
Each band will be encouraged to present themselves in their best possible light, playing to their strengths and free of the stresses and strains of contesting.
The bands are:
Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Brass Band: 10:30-11:15
Willebroek: 12:00-13:15
Black Dyke Band: 14:00-15:15pm
David Childs Solo Recital: 16:00-16:45
Flowers Band: 17:30-18:45
Foden's Band: 19:30-20:45

Step back in time for our Tudor Players Day at Berkeley Castle. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the past as live music and traditional Tudor dancing fill the Great Hall. With costumed performers and a lively, immersive atmosphere, it’s a wonderful way to experience the grandeur of the Castle as it might have been in the 1500s. Perfect for all ages, this special day brings history to life in the most entertaining way.
This event is included in the standard admission ticket. Simply book a ticket for 21st June.

These Islands - Summer Concert (details to follow)