Incoming !

I was delighted to accept this commission by the Footscray Yarraville City Band and their conductor (my friend & ex colleague) Louisa Lawless. I have made my response to the request to compose an upbeat opener and to adhere to the suggestion of something in the big band style.

Incoming is in three sections.

Each section hints at characteristics of three of my favourite artists (Sammy Nestico, Jamiroquai and Pat Metheny) all of whose creative output touches on or is embedded in the world of jazz and big bands.

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.