Spalding Flower Parade theme tune to inspire children

The Spalding Parade now has its very own theme tune which aims to boost the event’s profile and inspire young people.

Classical violinist and composer Simon Austin, who lives in the town, created a piece with the parade in mind years ago.

However, when Simon, who is originally from Berkshire, heard of Stephen Timewell’s plans to resurrect the event he knew exactly what it needed.

“I was really excited when I heard that Stephen was resurrecting the parade,” he said.

“I remember seeing the it before it ended and it had inspired a piece I had composed as part of my Spalding Sonatas, ten pieces which were created for piano and violin.

“I started composing in 2016 and I had the parade in mind for the piece even before I heard of the plans for the revived event.”

Simon, who works in software development, always thought that his Spalding Parade piece should have been played by a brass band and, thankfully, he didn’t have to look too hard to find one.

“Holbeach Town Band will be playing the piece during the parade,” said Simon.

“I went to one of their rehearsals and they were fantastic. They have been so enthusiastic about it.

“This march was originally written with the piano and violin in mind but I always felt it was made for a brass band to play.

“After I had heard of Stephen’s plans I went about arranging it for a brass band to play which didn’t take too long.”

There are also hopes that youngsters who watch the parade will be inspired to pick up an instrument.

“I really hope the music will inspire the children who are there on the day to learn an instrument,” said Simon.

“Perhaps those who hear the band playing as they go along the route or if they hear it before, I have visions of them miming along.”

Simon, who has volunteered be be a steward at the parade, has vowed to give any money made from the theme back to the event’s funds.

He said: “I want this to be a vehicle to help raise funds for the parade.

“People can stream it which immediately raises some streaming revenue and that really is a way of contributing to the funds without having to spend any money.

“It’s a way to donate without any direct costs.

“All of the money made will go to the parade - I think it’s far more important that the parade succeeds rather than I make a few pounds.

“I feel really proud and honoured that Stephen and the team have adopted this as the theme.

“I’d really like this to serve as part of the identity of the parade.”

The Flower Parade piece by Simon Paul Austin can be found on all streaming sites and a CD may be available if there is enough demand.