Around the Horn by Frank Downes: Chapter 3

Music & Conversation: The Podcast of English Composer Andrew Downes

Paula Downes reads her Grandfather and Andrew Downes' father Frank's book, Around the Horn, which tells the story of the Classical Music Industry from the point of view of a professional Horn player. Born 1921, died 2005, his fascinating orchestral career spanned the demise of the silent cinema, municipal seaside orchestras, the RAF Central band during World War II, orchestral playing in pre and post-war Britain, and the rise towards a Royal title for the Birmingham Conservatoire. Chapter 3 tells of the declaration of World War II, his first gig with the now CBSO, working with Adrian Boult and Malcom Sargent, air raids and fear. This episode ends with Andrew Downes' Symphony No.2, 1st movement since it depicts the fear and melancholy Frank experienced during this terrifying period. There are also sections that sound like air raids and bombs with angular strings, wailing ostinatos and loud percussion; and there is a sense of hope in parts, which depicts the excitement of performing such great music alongside such great musicians.