The 'Gaia' part of the Symphony's title refers to the Greek goddess of the earth and James Lovelock's Gaia Theory, which proposes the earth as a living, self-regulating organism, offering a broader, non-anthropocentric view of humanity's place in history.
Performer Biography
Eikanger-Bjørsvik Musikklag, primarily amateur musicians, is one of Europe's most famous brass bands, known for its wide musical range, premiering contemporary works, and being the most successful contesting band in Norway.
Composition History
John Pickard's work Eden was commissioned as a test piece for the 2005 National Brass Band Championship final at the Royal Albert Hall, London, and is prefaced by lines from Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost.
Composer Biography
John Pickard, the British composer, is a professor of composition at the University of Bristol and is known for his powerful orchestral and instrumental works, including five symphonies.
Historical Context
Brass bands, though now amateur, originated from military ensembles and later were associated with industrial patronage, especially mining, with many still concentrated in traditionally industrial areas.
Compositional Technique
The works on this album are written for a standard 'British' brass band, which includes instruments like soprano cornet, flügelhorn, tenor horns, baritone horns, trombones, euphoniums, and tubas, along with timpani and percussion.
Cultural Impact
The high standard of brass band playing, comparable to professional orchestras, is attributed to the competitive 'brass band contest' movement, which is the life-blood of the brass band world.
You might also enjoy...
Artyomov: Tristia & Way to Olympus
Marco: Sinfonia Nos. 4 & 5
Tate, J.I.: Tracing Mississippi / Iholba'
Woyrsch: Symphony No. 3 & 3 Böcklin-Phantasien
Claude Baker: Piano Concerto "From Noon to Starry Night" & Aus Schwanengesang (Live)
