about
Thumb is the creation of Stephen Mark Willey and Dan Watson. It is an independent contemporary music ensemble born with a purpose; to promote new music by upcoming composers and to champion established repertoire encompassing all corners of twentieth and twenty first century music. With a fresh outlook and an ambitious future, the ensemble's first ventures featured a collaborative project with contemporary dance, and a performance of Mark-Anthony Turnage, Release in a concert showcasing the works of living composers with the Birmingham Conservatoire Saxophone Choir.
The ensemble's aims are to inspire, with repertoire that pushes the boundaries of fresh music whilst aiming to present accessible concerts. Through commissioning new works from the next generation of cutting edge composers, Thumb is proud to showcase some of the most innovative and exciting repertoire as performed by our energetic ensemble, offering audiences electrifying and edgy experiences.
Always open to great ideas, Thumb have successfully carried out, and seek to continue putting forward collaborative projects with others. If you are interested in working with Thumb, being a part of Thumb or have any suggestions and ideas for Thumb, please do get in touch. We have also provided a list of frequently asked questions, which will answer some of your queries. We look forward to hearing from you.
people
Dan Watson
Conductor and Co - Artistic Director
As a co founder of Thumb, Dan has played an integral part in the formation of the ensemble. Other than heavily contributing to the direction of the ensemble, he brings a wealth of experience in conducting and working closely with the performers to achieve the energetic and exciting sound that is Thumb.
Stephen Mark Willey
Co - Artistic Director
Also a co founder of Thumb, Stephen helped ensure the successful launch of the ensemble. Amongst many things, he provides compositional advice, handles commissions and approaches from composers wishing to write for the ensemble. He also handles any electronics written for the ensemble. As a composer, Stephen frequently writes for Thumb and enjoys writing in a wide range of styles.
Tom Bassett
Orchestral Manager
Tom has been around as a close friend to Thumb since the beginning, however his role was made official in August 2009 as he took on the role of Orchestral Manager. Also as a composer, he provides further advice with regard to commissions and often writes for Thumb.
faq
What is your instrumental lineup?
Our lineup features whatever is needed for any given project within which we partake. We have readily available access to standard orchestral instruments/instrumentalists, including a comprehensive variety of percussion.
Can I write a piece for you?
If, as a composer you feel you can contribute to Thumbs energetic sound, we would love to hear from you. Use shout@thisisthumb.co.uk to get in touch.
Can I play with you?
Again, if you feel you have a fresh approach to performance that you feel suits Thumb's character, we want to know about you, so use shout@thisisthumb.co.uk to fill us in.
What collaborations are you open to?
We enjoy working with gifted artists, whatever their specialist field may be. Individuals within Thumb have experience of working with contemporary ballet, musical theatre and visual communication to name but a few mediums, but we are of course open to new projects.
Do you do weddings?
If, after joining our mailing list, listening to our music and attending one of our performances, you still feel our style and commitment is appropriate for the signing of the register and then by all means get in touch.
I have a great idea for Thumb, how can I tell you about it?
Give us a shout@thisisthumb.co.uk.
Do you have any recordings I can listen to?
Our website will eventually be a place full of recordings, videos and wonderful pictures. Join our mailing list by emailing shout@thisisthumb.co.uk to find out when the updates will be made.
Are you expensive?
We offer excellent value for money.
Do you do educational projects?
As a cutting edge contemporary music ensemble, we feel that delivering quality music education is firmly within our remit. We can take workshops and work with young composers and musicians wishing to further explore new music. Further details will be broadcast using our mailing list, so email shout@thisisthumb.co.uk to make sure you don't miss out.