Get off the Fence

The spoken phrase “Don’t beat about the bush” requires a direct response which implies “Just give me a straight answer”. These phrases have an edge of transparency or honesty about them. The musical material of “Get off the Fence” seeks to keep things simple by adhering to the notion of transparency / honesty– straight ahead swing; nothing more, nothing less. A sequence of catchy, blues-like motifs set to the background of a relentless, driving swing beat.

Jock McKenzie studied trumpet at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester where he was a joint recipient of the college’s concerto prize. Since 1987 Jock has based his musical career in Hampshire, working as a freelance trumpeter, conductor, composer, arranger and brass teacher. Currently Jock holds the position of Professional Leader (Brass) for Hampshire Music Service and is the Director of the Hampshire County Youth Band. It is the mix of all of these musical roles that has led to Jock establishing a reputation as a leading creator of brass music resources, particularly in the field of education and brass ensemble music.