United Kingdom / England
Founded in 1966 by trombonist, Leslie Lake, the Locke Brass Consort began its journey as a brass quintet dedicated to bringing chamber music into schools and local clubs. Over the decades, however, it has evolved into a formidable force in the brass world, celebrated for its symphonic breadth and artistic ambition.
A pivotal chapter in the ensemble’s history began in 1975, when a collaboration with conductor James Stobart transformed the quintet into a vastly enlarged symphonic brass and percussion ensemble. This new configuration propelled the group onto the national stage throughout the 1980s, marked by regular performances at London’s South Bank Centre, frequent broadcasts on the BBC and Capital Radio, and a series of critically acclaimed recordings that reached audiences across Europe and the United States.
Perhaps the Consort’s most defining achievement of this era was its commitment to the works of Richard Strauss. Their ambitious project to record his complete music for brass remains a landmark contribution to the repertoire, notably featuring the world premiere recording of the Festmusik der Stadt Wien (1943).
Following a hiatus, the ensemble was revitalized in early 2014 by its founder. Since retiring from the orchestra of the English National Opera, Leslie Lake has returned to the podium as Musical Director and Conductor, dedicated to recapturing the signature symphonic sound that established the Locke Brass Consort as a premier voice in brass music. Today, the ensemble continues to honor its rich legacy while maintaining the standard of excellence that has defined its performances for nearly sixty years.
Recordings
- 1976 – Contrasts in Brass
- 1977 – Jubilant Brass
- 1978 – Contrasts in Brass, Volume 2
- 1979 – Richard Strauss: Music for Symphonic Brass
- 1982 – Symphonic Marches for Concert Brass
- 1984 – Miniatures for Brass
- 1990 – Essentially English