Watchman, Tell Us of the Night

An arrangement of Aberystwyth
By Benjamin Tubb-Hearne

Watchman, Tell Us of the Night is a striking reimagining of the beloved hymn tune Aberystwyth — a piece that has held a special place in the composer’s heart since their youth growing up in the brass band movement. Far from a traditional hymn setting, this arrangement fully embraces the tune’s rich minor tonality and takes it somewhere unexpected.

The work opens serenely and softly, building an atmosphere of anticipation before the familiar melody emerges through a group of harmon-muted cornets. A muted euphonium counter-melody weaves beneath it — a special homage to Welsh euphonium player Nigel John, who shares both the composer’s long-standing band history and the hymn’s Welsh roots.

Where This Arrangement Sets Itself Apart

As the piece develops, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. Sharp, quirky interjections — reminiscent of the dramatic flair of film composers like Danny Elfman — inject unexpected colour and character, before giving way to a powerful, grounded statement of the melody driven by the bass section.

The opening material returns as a bridge into a moment of quiet reflection, featuring exposed solo lines from the principal cornet. This stillness is short-lived, quickly building into a stirring, band-wide climax underpinned by an exciting cornet counter-melody. The arrangement then settles back to where it began, closing the night as softly and serenely as it opened.

Why Programme This Piece

• A hymn arrangement unlike any other — bold, cinematic, and full of character, ideal for standing out in a competition programme
• Rich stylistic contrast, moving from serene minor-key reflection to dramatic, film-inspired interjections
• Featured solo and section moments for harmon-muted cornets, muted euphonium, principal cornet, and bass section
• A rousing, exciting climax that delivers real impact for both performers and adjudicators
• Deep personal and musical roots, honouring both Welsh brass band tradition and a tribute to a respected euphonium player

For bands looking to bring something genuinely different to the stage — a hymn arrangement with unexpected depth, drama, and character — Watchman, Tell Us of the Night is a compelling choice for competition or concert.

Listen to a performance below, then add this distinctive arrangement to your band’s repertoire.