Set as the first section testpiece for the 2004 Regionals.
Coventry Variations was originally written in December 1986 and first performed in that month by the GUS band under the direction of the composer at the Derngate Theatre, Northampton.
The original set of six variations was designed for concert performance and consisted of present variations to IV, VIII, and IX. In this form the work has been recorded several times including two live recordings conducted by the composer. Three additional variations (now variations V to VII) were added in 1999 to make a longer work, specifically designed for brass band competitions.
Apart from the usual thematic connections that a set of variations has with the main theme, the city of Coventry itself is also represented in the music, with bells and plainsong from the cathedral; the hustle and bustle of industry; and even a suggestion of that fateful night during the Second World War when enemy action destroyed the ancient cathedral and city centre. Like the original Coventry Carol, Coventry Variations does not fully resolve until the final chord when the listener may imagine the new city rising, Phoenix-like, from the ashes of the old.
Coventry Variations is dedicated to the composer’s stepfather, the late Cyril Manning, former bandmaster of the Southend Citadel Band of the Salvation Army.
Note for brass band competitions: Adjudicators should penalise bands who alter the scoring of this work — particularly bass sections who add 8va bassa.
