Prime Brass (UK)

Cambridge-based ensemble Prime Brass was formed in 1989 by trumpeter Paul Garner. For its first thirteen years Prime Brass appeared predominantly as a quintet, comprising (since 2001) Michel Sedgwick and Paul Garner (trumpets), Guy Llewellyn (horn), Alex Hewins (trombone) and Christopher Lawrence (tuba). Since 2002, however, the ensemble has developed into a regular 10-piece ensemble, and it is in this formation that Prime Brass currently gives most of its concerts.
As well as regular 10-piece and quintet performances, the ensemble expands for a few concerts each year to perform repertoire for symphonic forces or larger. In particular, the players appreciate the opportunity to perform regularly in Ely Cathedral and the Chapel of King’s College, Cambridge. Prime Brass gives an annual recital in King’s Chapel, conducted by the Director of Music at King’s, Stephen Cleobury, with whom the ensemble enjoys a flourishing relationship. These recitals include the addition of the organ, reflecting the ensemble’s exploration of the repertoire for this combination, which has led to performances of works by composers such as Cowell, David, Delerue, Hakim, Koechlin, Langlais, Leitner, Müller-Zürich, Schmidt, Vierne and Wills. Read more...