Llwydcoed’s Little Prayer

The latest social distance performance from Llwydcoed Band sees the Welsh outfit collaborate with perhaps the most prolific percussion soloist in history - Dame Evelyn Glennie.

The percussion star's first significant collaboration with a brass band took place in 1997 when she recorded her Reflected in Brass solo album with Black Dyke on the RCA label. Shortly after this, her beautiful marimba solo composition, A Little Prayer was introduced to brass enthusiasts worldwide through wonderful arrangements for brass band, and solo euphonium with brass band, by Dr. Robert Childs.

Speaking to Brass Band World, Llwydcoed Band MD, Chris Turner commented: "A Little Prayer is a very special piece for me, so when Dame Evelyn Glennie graciously agreed to perform  with us on our rendition of what has become a brass band classic, I was delighted! I never anticipated the enthusiasm with which she would aid the band in their tribute to the NHS workers struggling to keep our country going in these difficult times."

On how the collaboration came about, Chris revealed: "Once the idea had popped into my head, I contacted Dame Evelyn via Facebook, not even expecting a reply!! To my surprise, the next day her PA, got in touch and I received her video the following day!"

Having composed the piece at the age of thirteen, Dame Evelyn Glennie's A Little Prayer has captured the imagination of performers and touched the hearts of millions for many years, making this latest 'lockdown' video the perfect tribute to the NHS in such a trying time.

Chris summed up the band's gratitude for Dame Evelyn: "That someone so important would support a relatively little band like ours in our quest to value those keeping us safe is a tribute to NHS workers everywhere. The band would like to thank Dame Evelyn for contributing in such a special way and would like to thank all key workers for putting us before themselves in these difficult times."

You can watch the video below and make a donation to the NHS here. 

You can read Dame Evelyn Glennie's exclusive BBW interview with David Childs by signing up for a free 3-month BBW Digital trial, providing online access to more than 40 magazines, including this one! Click here to subscribe.