The Isle of Man Wind Orchestra (IoMWO) is celebrating its 20th anniversary in style on July 3 with a gala concert at St Ninian’s Church in Douglas.

The concert will feature the world premiere of a new composition which is inspired by the Isle of Man.

The IoMWO, with kind assistance from the Malcolm Scott Dickinson Charitable Trust, commissioned world-renowned composer Martin Ellerby to compose a piece to commemorate the anniversary.

Martin Ellerby, who lives in Altrincham, Cheshire, has written in most forms including five symphonies, 12 concertos, and a large scale Requiem for choir and orchestra. He visited the island several times and found inspiration in its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The result is ’Five Manx Romances’, an exhilarating musical journey through the history, landscapes and landmarks of Manannan’s Isle.

Musical director and co-founder, Paul Dunderdale, said: ’It’s a great honour to have such a special piece of music dedicated to us, an honour we take very seriously indeed.

’We are delighted to have this opportunity and are very excited at the prospect of sharing this moment with our audience.’

The IoMWO is partnering with UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man for the concert: the island’s Biosphere status recognises its rich and diverse natural and cultural resources, aligning with the themes in Five Manx Romances and the objectives of the orchestra.

Paul Dunderdale added: ’The IoMWO thanks the Isle of Man Arts Council for its gracious support in staging the gala concert.’

The gala concert will take place at St Ninian’s Church on July 3 at 7.30 pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and free for schoolchildren and pensioners. Call Michael Morrison, 437751 or Amoré du Plessis on 341731, email [email protected] or contact us via Facebook

â?¢ The Isle of Man Wind Orchestra is a community ensemble of around 50 woodwind, brass and percussion musicians, led by Musical Director Paul Dunderdale.

The orchestra performs a wide variety of music ranging from classic wind ensemble music to light and popular music.

New players are warmly welcomed. For more information contact [email protected]