Ricercare was commissioned by London Brass to mark their 30th Anniversary, to add to the small repertoire of pieces specifically written for brass and organ and to celebrate the new organ at St Georges. The basis of the piece is the Italian term ricercare which means 'to seek out'. Being David's first mature concert work to feature the organ there was a fair bit of seeking out involved in the composition of the organ part! So thanks are due to Martin Baker, Master of Music at Westminster Cathedral for showing the way. The piece is best described as a modern take on the Late Renaissance/Baroque Ricercare instrumental form where themes are explored by melodic imitation. Use is also made of antiphonal placement of the brass. Driven by strong rhythms the piece has an all-pervading feeling of celebration.
