By Isle of Wight Observer
An Island brass band has formed a partnership with a talented young composer and musician.
Abbey Brass has appointed former Ryde School pupil, Mary Lillington, now studying at Cardiff University – as its first composer-in-residence.
The two-year post offers Mary the opportunity to create new works, experiment with new ideas and develop her artistic practice.
Phillip Littlemore, Abbey Brass’ musical director, said: “I believe it is the band’s duty to nurture young composer talent, more so when it is local to the Island. I played alongside Mary in the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra and have followed her musical development since then.
“Within this new role not only will Mary create new brass band works, but the relationship will also assist in her artistic development with hands-on opportunities to experiment with new ideas throughout every stage of the compositional process.”
Mary, a cornet and trumpet player, is currently an instrumental scholarship student at Cardiff University, studying towards a Bachelor of Music degree. She is now in her third year, studying on exchange at the University of Manitoba in Canada.
She said: “Receiving this appointment is such an exciting opportunity. It gives me the chance to workshop ideas with the band as I create new pieces. Having grown up on the Isle of Wight, it feels great to take up this position with Abbey Brass. I am really looking forward to working with them.”
