BBC Radio 2 Young Brass Award
Black Dyke's euphoniumist, Daniel Thomas was crowned winner of the 2016 BBC Radio 2 Young Brass Award and, David Childs was there to witness the four-man final. An extract from his report:
‘I first met Daniel through his talented parents, Chris and Sue, both of whom have been distinguished members of Cory band for many years. Daniel would often attend rehearsals, concerts, contests and workshops, showing great promise and enthusiasm from an early age. (I remember him playing Peter Meechan’s fiendishly difficult Devil’s Duel for me in my kitchen when he was only 15!) Having been a member of the euphonium and baritone section of Cory, Daniel went on to join Tredegar, with whom he played Solo Euphonium, winning the British Open and picking up the Best Euphonium prize at the age of 18! Now a member of Black Dyke and a student at the RNCM, it came as no surprise to see Daniel in the Final and it was even less of a surprise to hear him produce the finest solo playing of the evening.
With his first solo, Michelangelo - a Norwegian pop-song arranged for Tormod Flaten by Frode Rydland, Daniel displayed innate lyricism with great control and warmth of tone. In absolute contrast he followed that with extraordinary range, flexibility and agility in Andy Scott’s Dragon’s Den - the third movement from the composer’s euphonium concerto composed for Glyn Williams.’
For a full report of the Final by BBW Editor, David Childs, click the ‘read more’ icon below and find out how to subscribe to BBW Digital - just £30 worldwide.
.gif)
