Paul Douglas

Famous Hymns and Marches

Brass Bands have a great tradition of playing in a variety of styles. Due to the depth of timbres of a whole band, they are especially renowned for their renditions of hymn tunes. These are slow sustained pieces with rich harmonies and sweeping melodies. Playing these tunes requires mastery of flowing legato playing, where the breaks for breaths are kept to an absolute minimum, note lengths are maximised and dynamics add important colour to the line. In contrast, Brass or Wind Band Marches require high energy, crisp tonguing and articulation. They should be delivered with precise rhythms, and a very steady pulse.  Typically, Marches would have the main themes played by the solo cornet section and this is often followed by a section featuring the lower brass (referred to as the ‘Bass solo’). In these arrangements, everybody gets to play all the main themes. This collection of both contrasting styles has some of the best iconic band repertoire and every piece has its own story to tell.