Six members of Foden's Band will travel to Armagh in Northern Ireland this weekend to perform in a concert with musicians from the Armagh Summer School and an ensemble of local pipers, of a new work commissioned for the event written by composer Andy Scott.
Dirty River
Entitled, ‘Dirty River’, Andy told 4BR that the work is inspired by the river’s flow, right in the heart of the city, as it supplied the source of power to a foundry, coach works, brewery, flour mill and at least three tanning yards - the factories and businesses that gave Armagh its industrial pulse.
Personal
"I was approached to write a piece for the combined forces of brass band, Irish pipes and bagpipes, that would be very personal to Armagh and its people," he said.
"Last February when accompanying Foden's on its annual visit, I met the pipers and was given a demo, as well as driving and walking around Armagh to help me understand the vision and concept that I could convey through the music.
It is also a tribute to the founder members of the Armagh Old Boys Band."
Mayor
Foden's will be making their 14th annual trip on the weekend and will rehearse with around 25 young musicians before appearing in a lunch time concert.
Following a civic reception with the Mayor of Armagh they will then perform the music as well as items from their latest ‘Patron’s VII’ CD release.
Highlights
Speaking about the trip Band Manager Mark Wilkinson added: "We are all looking forward to one of the highlights in the band’s calendar.
Over the past fourteen years we have built up a special relationship with the folk of Armagh, the musicians and bands people who travel from across Northern and Southern Ireland to support our Saturday night concert, as well as members from our 'Summer School' that attracts over 100 delegates each year."
Tickets for the Friday and Saturday concerts can be obtained at: 0283 7526339