The Isle of Man Music Service welcomes the publication of new Manx music books for the Island’s brass players.
Developed in partnership with Culture Vannin, the music resource titled ‘Prash’ (Manx Gaelic for brass) consists of two student music books and four piano accompaniment books, each containing solo pieces, with some optional duet parts.
Paul Hamilton, Music Service’s Head of Brass said: “Music is a strong component of our cultural identity in the Isle of Man. Learning, listening and performing can promote a sense of community and belonging, encouraging a greater awareness of our rich musical heritage.
“It has been excellent to once again work in partnership with Culture Vannin, and my thanks go to Manx music development officer, Chloe Woolley, peripatetic brass teacher Juan Wright and Frank Woolley, local composer and teacher, for their expertise. The musical arrangements in this new resource will be enjoyed by brass players young and old.”
The traditional melodies and songs were specially selected for use in graded music exams and for other solo performances where own choice graded repertoire is required, such as the annual Manx Music Festival.
As well as being an introduction to popular Manx melodies such as the Manx National Anthem ‘O Land of Our Birth’, ‘Eunyssagh Vona’ (Mona's Delight), and ‘Arrane Ghelby’ (Dalby Song), the student books are illustrated with interesting facts about local history and folklore, and informative background notes about the music.
‘Prash’ (Brass) is the latest in a series of Manx educational resources produced by Culture Vannin in partnership with the Isle of Man Music Service, including ‘Coraa’ (choral arrangements for schools), ‘Fiddyl’ (violin & viola), ‘Feddan’ (whistle), ‘Claasagh’ (harp) and ‘Feddan Mooar’ (flute).
A limited number of copies of ‘Prash’ are available to purchase directly from Culture Vannin. For more information contact Chloe Woolley by email at manxmusic@culturevannin.im or visit www.manxmusic.com
Photograph shows from right to left
Juan Wright (brass peripatetic teacher, DEC Music Service), Chloe Woolley (Manx music development officer, Culture Vannin), Paul Hamilton (Head of Brass, DEC Music Service), Maggie Richardson (Head of DEC Music Service), Frank Woolley (composer and piano teacher)
