Balancing pragmatism and idealism in composition for wind bands and wind ensembles

Brown, Matthew Robert (2024) Balancing pragmatism and idealism in composition for wind bands and wind ensembles. Doctoral thesis (PhD), The Royal Northern College of Music in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University.

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Abstract

This thesis is a critical reflection of how balancing idealism and pragmatism can be achieved in composition for wind bands and wind ensembles, including within my creative output. My unique contribution to knowledge is the provision of new repertoire and understanding to add to the growing body of wind band literature and research. My thesis and its accompanying portfolio of compositions illustrate that there are potential obstacles and opportunities for composers in this field. These obstacles are usually practical ones, such as limits on group size. Opportunities are illustrated in the form of creative challenges, such as the need to address personal definitions of limitations and to find ways to preserve the feeling of creative control. This is especially important for those who are intent on exploring their own compositional identity or ‘voice’. After introducing the concept of a compositional ‘voice’, this is explored in the context of composition for wind bands and wind ensembles. The discussion is around overcoming obstacles and making optimum use of opportunities. The thesis has implications for composers who may feel constrained when writing for wind bands and wind ensembles of different sizes. This is also a document of my creative response to my key influences. These features are aligned with my own interests and motivations as a composer.