Hilary Burt
Composer & Producer
Writing for Big Bands and Large Ensembles
I’ve written a number of big band charts for Terry Pack’s Trees and for the Sussex Jazz Orchestra, which I’m still actively involved with as both a player and composer.
The Trees ensemble recorded Heart of Oak in June 2017, and I was thrilled to have several of my pieces featured. The band regularly performed four of my charts: Simeon, Baka, The Story So Far, and an arrangement of Eleanor Rigby.
Terry Pack's Trees - recording Heart of Oak - album released on June 2017.
My first large ensemble composition, “Simeon” blends voices, flutes, and big band instrumentation into a joyful, groove-led piece inspired by hope and renewal. This beautifully shot video captures the full ensemble of Terry Pack’s Trees performing live at Hawthbush Farm in Sussex, with rich solos and layered textures. A review from Jazz Views called it “an outstanding piece of orchestration.”
Nick Lea of Jazz Views wrote:
‘Simeon’ is a delightfully grooving piece by Hilary Burt that skilfully blends voices with the big band, which, despite its size, is remarkably light on its feet. Remarkably this is Burt's first experience of writing for a large ensemble, and an outstanding piece of orchestration it is, complemented by fine solos from David Beebee on electric piano and tenor saxophonists Charlotte Glasson and Philipe Guyard.
Written at a turning point in my life, “The Story So Far” is a reflective, expressive piece that weaves together melody, harmony, and emotion through large ensemble writing. Featuring voices and full band, this live performance captures the feeling of looking back—and moving forward.
“Baka” was inspired by the rainforest-dwelling Baka people of Central Africa and their deep musicality and connection to nature. Written for big band, additional flutes, and voices, it celebrates rhythm, voice, and community. This performance by Terry Pack’s Trees is vibrant and immersive, filmed with care to showcase the energy of the full ensemble in action.
Finally here I am conducting one of my tunes at a Trees gig in Brighton.
It’s been a real privilege to have these pieces brought to life by such talented and generous musicians — full of energy, sensitivity and imagination.