In early 2012, for several nights in a row, I had this tune going through my head with a distinctive drum rhythm. As this continued, I decided to find some manuscript paper and write it down so I would not forget it. Subliminally, it turned out to be The Lord’s Prayer. Paper was too difficult for my skills level, as I needed to hear what I was writing. I found composition software, called MuseScore, and set on my first attempt at writing for Brass Band.

Sylken Variations was a three verse hymn, possibly for use as a competition hymn. A quick run through by K&N Brass revealed some elements that needed further familiarisation by the players and scoring refinements. These refinements are possibly beyond my technical skills, a project for further work.

The tune itself lends itself to adapting for other usage such as piano (done), bagpipes, voices and ensembles.