Armada was written as a gift to Mark Heron and the RNCM Wind Orchestra in appreciation of their second recording project of my wind orchestra music for the MEM Recordings label. In 1588 the Spanish launched their Armada, a naval tour-de-force, against the English fleet based in Plymouth. It did not result in their favour. However, this piece has nothing to do with that historical occasion, it is purely derived from the title Armada and the ‘rhythm’ of that enterprise. I would describe it as an encore-outing, an opportunity for bands to display their technique and flamboyance within a three minute time restraint – perhaps not one to be taken as seriously as an invasion by a real-life Spanish Armada!
