Phoenix Concert Band returns to St Margaret’s Church in Ilkley this month with a specially chosen concert programme to celebrate the shared joy of live music after the restrictions of the pandemic.
The concert is entitled Reunited and features a piece of the same name composed for the occasion by Phoenix’s musical director Keiron Anderson. The new composition reflects the excitement of players gathering at rehearsal for the first time post-lockdown and their enjoyment of time once more spent making music together.
The concert will be the world premiere of Reunited. Keiron has published his new piece with a dedication reading: “Dedicated to Phoenix Concert Band, Leeds, UK and all musicians everywhere, reunited after the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Looking ahead to other post-Covid freedoms, the 50-strong wind orchestra will encourage the audience to dream of travelling the world again. Film favourites Oklahoma, South Pacific and Pirates of the Caribbean will transport you to warmer climes, while arrangements of Latin American, Slavonic and Armenian dance music will surely have you tapping your feet.
Hilary Pattison, band chair, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to St Margaret’s Church to perform our first indoor concert for over two years.
“Band members have demonstrated incredible commitment and togetherness through the challenges of lockdowns and Covid restrictions. Whilst we’ve done our best to continue online or socially distanced rehearsals, it can’t compare to the atmosphere of playing as a full band for a live audience.”
Phoenix Concert Band performs the Reunited concert programme on Saturday 26 March at 7.30pm, at St Margaret's Church, Queen's Road, Ilkley, LS29 9QL.
Tickets are priced £10 for adults, £8 for concessions and free for under-16s. You can book online or buy tickets using contactless payment on the door. To book in advance visit www.phoenixconcertband.org/hear and follow the online booking link.