Rise of the Phoenix was commissioned by The Clifton and Lightcliffe Band with funds from The National Lottery Commission. Darrol Barry had earlier written another piece in 1991 for the band following their four year sponsorship with Yorkshire Water, titled Yorkshire Water Music. Darrol’s remit this time was to compose a test piece standard piece of music which would depict the highs and lows of the band throughout its history since its formation in 1838. The music is dedicated to all the former players and conductors of Clifton and Lightcliffe Band.
As the title suggests, the Phoenix was a fabulous mythical bird, who every morning at dawn sang a song so enchanting that even the sun god Apollo would stop and listen.
The bird would live for hundreds of years and at the end of its life would build a pyre, set it on fire and be consumed by the flames. After three days the Phoenix would be reborn from the ashes to sing once more.
In much the same way since 1838 the Clifton and Lightcliffe Band has had difficulties and has been reborn to make music once more. This has only been accomplished by the dedication of its players, officials and friends.
Over the years all the Musical Directors have played a pivotal role in the band's history and this piece of music is dedicated to each and every one of them. We feel the need to mention James Nuttall, Iames Hickman, John Clay who formed the junior section which trains and provides players for the senior band and who is the current senior band conductor, and Bernard Lawson. These men have contributed so much to the ongoing future of the band and this is our way of thanking them.
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