Australians in Song

Description

Australians in Song, the CD title track was arranged for the Brisbane Lord Mayors Gala Concert by composer Barrie Gott. The music comprises popular Australian melodies We Are Australian, Bad Habits and I Still Call Australia Home complete with authentic didgeridoo sounds of the virtuoso, Stephen Bond. XLCR premiered the number with a 100 voice choir. On this CD, although not of the same magnitude, the band feature throughout the singing and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Mark Ham fits the Bad Habits role perfectly.

American Salvationist James Curnow sets the scene for XLCR’s CD with an excellent original work in the form of Blenheim Flourishes.

Goff Richards arrangement of An American Trilogy incorporates three popular spirituals.

The band feature three instrumental solos on this disc in Ashley Gittins, 2004 Australian Champion Euphonium player performing Mario Lanza’s classic Be My Love. Amanda Casagrande, 2004 NZ Champion Flugel player gives us the beautiful Concerto D’Aranguez made famous by the film Brassed Off. Lastly, this CD features an emerging talent on soprano cornet, Dale Hosking, performing the simple yet haunting La Califfa.

Hymns and marches are an important part of any Brass Band. Perhaps one of the most famous Salvation Army marches, Wilfred Heaton’s Praise is featured here.

The Old Rugged Cross, with gorgeous sounds from soloists Steve Ridler and Rodney Everitt, was the hymn tune chosen as the winning performance at the 2003 New South Wales State titles.

The band is fortunate to have a professional vocalist in Julie Woods within the ranks, who regularly performs with the band. Julie is featured singing Fever which was arranged especially for the band by Barrie Gott.

Ray Woodfield’s unique arrangement of Sing Sing Sing, Robbie Williams: Swing When You’re Winning, andBreezin Down Broadway are just some of the many pieces that are performed by the band in its role as entertainers.

“May the road rise up to meet you” are the words which begin the Irish Blessing which is beautifully arranged here by Steven Bradnum.

The CD comes to a climatic finish with Andy Duncan’s moving and dramatic portrayal of the Battle of Gettysburg, Reunion and Finale.