Photo of Derek Hasted

Derek Hasted’s Celebration Suite is a joyful, romantic work for solo classical guitar. Performed and first recorded by Bruce Paine, it has delighted audiences in concert, on RNZ Concert radio, and now on streaming platforms worldwide.  Written for intermediate to advanced players, the suite combines melodic charm with an uplifting sense of grandeur.

Bruce Paine gave the premiere recording of the piece on his album Second Recital for Guitar.

The Composer

Derek Hasted is widely recognised for his championing of guitar ensemble music. He has arranged more than 275 works for guitar orchestra and smaller groups, as well as music for a cappella voices and brass. In 2002 he won the Portsmouth News We Can Do It Award, and was later commissioned by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music to contribute to their innovative Music Medals scheme. His music was premiered at the Guildford International Music Festival in 2005.

In addition to guitar, Derek plays piano, brass, and other plucked strings. His musical outlook embraces a wide range of styles — and he even boasts the world’s most distant duet partner: Bruce Paine, based some 18,000 km away in New Zealand.

Celebration Suite 

Subtitled Captivation, Contemplation, Consolation and Celebration, this suite tells a love story in music. Its lyrical melodies, accessible harmonies, and classical sense of structure make it a favourite with both performers and audiences. The slow D minor chords of Consolation are particularly striking, adding depth to a work otherwise marked by joy and majesty.

Recording

Bruce Paine’s interpretation of Celebration Suite is featured on the opening four tracks of his CD Second Recital for Guitar.  

Since its release in 1999, the recording has been broadcast regularly on RNZ Concert — and Bruce Paine has performed the work in various concert settings. One audience member later recounted that he had first heard the suite on RNZ Concert while driving, and the music moved him so deeply that he pulled over to listen to it in full.

🎧 Listen on Spotify
Also available on Apple Music, YouTube Music, and other platforms.

Web Links

Learn more about Derek Hasted and his music:

Derek Hasted's Website