Cai’s first EP of compositions, ‘Mabinogion’ is to be found under the artist name ‘Idaten’ on all streaming platforms. With numerous compositions for brass band, wind orchestra, string quartet and piano soloists some notable recent commissions include a soprano cornet solo which was premiered by Bert Van Thienen and Cory Brass Band at the European Championships Gala Concert in Ostende, Belgium as well as a tuba solo for Kazz Kouno which was premiered in Japan, 2023.
Recent compositions are self published but below are a few which were published by Prima Vista Musikk.
Branwen is the second in a series of compositions for brass band by Cai Isfryn, based on the tale from Welsh mythology of Branwen, the Welsh goddess of love. (The first, Vengeance, was published in 2009).
Here we hear a character study of Branwen, with the soft and lyrical melody of the soprano cornet representing her beauty and the smooth underlying triplet feel of the band accompaniment creating an atmospheric and gentle effect.
Branwen was premièred by Bert van Thienen and the Cory Band at the Gala Concert of the 2009 European Brass Band Championships held in Ostende, Belgium.
Duration; 3.30, Difficulty Level; Medium.
PrimaVista Musikk (click here for purchase)
Tonnau'r Cawr (Vengeance) for Brass Band
Tonnau'r Cawr (Vengeance) is the first in a series of compositions for Brass Bands by Cai Isfryn, based on the tale from Welsh mythology of Branwen, the Welsh goddess of love.
During this segment of the tale, Bendigeidfran (Branwen's brother) finds out about his sister's mistreatment at the hands of her husband, Matholwch, king of Ireland. This is represented by the thunderous opening chords, which break out into a fast paced romp, underlined by the ostinato phrase by the back row as Bendigeidfran gathers the Welsh army ready to rescue his sister. As the tension builds, Bendigeidfran suddenly hears Branwen's cry for help clear in his mind, represented by the off-stage cornet call.
This sets the scene for the closing section as we hear Bendigeidfran's army approaching Ireland, preparing for war in order to free their princess.
Duration; 5.30, Difficulty Level; Medium/Difficult
Prima Vista Musikk (click here for purchase)
Blizzard (for Euphonium and Brass Quintet)
Blizzard is the third piece in a series of compositions by Cai Isfryn, based on the tale from Welsh mythology of Branwen, the Welsh goddess of love.
For Purchase, contact caiisfryn@hotmail.com