Description
Duration 5:15 min
Commissioned by Westgate Concert Band for their 45th Anniversary
In loving memory of Derek Humphrey and Roy Hamilton
Program Notes
My wife Robyn has been a member of Westgate Concert Band for over 35 years, is a life member, and has made a lifetime of friendships in this wonderful community band in Melbourne, Victoria. When Robyn and I got engaged, and later married, I was welcomed to the "Westgate family" with open arms and have enjoyed many fun rehearsals and concerts with them, as player and conductor. I have always held both of the legendary Westgate Concert Band MDs, Derek Humphrey and Roy Hamilton in the highest regard. They always had the music and the wellbeing of the musicians at the core of their business and provided a safe, productive and growth-focussed place for young people to come and play. Sadly, they have both now passed away, and their loss is keenly felt by all "Westgaters". We miss you Derek and Roy, but your legacy lives on and you will forever be in our hearts and memories. I was asked by the Committee to write this very special piece of music for the Band's 45th Anniversary in 2024 and was thrilled to be able to pay tribute to the ensemble, the true gentlemen who led it for so many years, and the community of the musicians and their families. Thanks for the honour of writing for you Westgate Concert Band. Thanks for making Robyn, and later Hannah and I, a loved part of your family. Thanks for all the great music you have performed over 45 years in our community. You are special. You are superb. You are our mates.
Instrumentation: Picc, Fl 1 2, Ob, Bsn, Cl 1 2 3, Bs Cl, A Sx 1 2, T Sx, B Sx, F Hn 1 2, Tpt 1 2 3, Tbn 1 2, Bs Tbn, Euph/Cello (TC part included), Tuba, Timp, Sus Cym, Wind Ch, Vibes, Glock, Sn Dr