Concerto for Euphonium was commissioned by Doyen Recordings Ltd. for Robert Childs and Black Dyke Band and was first performed by them at the Royal Northern College of Music Festival of Brass in February 2000.The Concerto is sub-titled 'Eulogy', in the sense of 'in praise of' or 'in appreciation of', intending to draw attention to both the lyrical and dramatic qualities of the euphonium.
The three movements are in a tuneful, melodic style and bravura passages are mixed with others designed to exploit the singing qualities of the instrument.
I: A vigorous allegro in which the short, pithy motifs of the opening theme contrast with the broad sweep of the second subject - its accompaniment formed from a gentle transformation of the earlier theme. A short cadenza-like passage yields to a high-spirited episode before a reprise of the opening ends quietly.
II: Opening with a warm, romantic melody which is soon taken up by the soloist. A short animated section gives way to the earlier tutti theme, this time with passionate decoration from the soloist before the music gently unwinds in a tranquil coda.
III: The finale has a bouncy, festive feel from the outset. After the first subject runs its course there is a brief journey through a more contrapuntal style, via an ostinato to a spirited presto which in turn moves into a compound episode before returning to the opening idea. The soloist is called upon to perform a few more 'fireworks' before the jubilant coda brings the work to a conclusion.
