Brass Band Summer School 2018
The Brass Band Summer School, one of the longest running summer schools, was held at Culford School in Suffolk. Established over 30 years ago, the course has a tradition of welcoming musicians from all over the globe. This year was no exception with delegates visiting from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.
The course was led by the highly experienced and poular MD, Richard Evans with a star studded tutorial staff including David Childs, Owen Farr, James Fountain, Nicholas Hudson, Lee Skipsey, Steve Sykes and Brian Taylor; each giving a superb recital during the course of the week, in addition to the end of the week 'Tutors Ensemble' performance.
There were also a number of visiting guests who provided interviews, clinics and specialist tuition including: the legendary Elgar Howarth, Ralph Brill of the Irish Guards Band, Giles Whitham delivering an historical instrument lecture and Marcus Reynolds, the inventor of the Stratos embouchure device.
A spokesperson commented: "During the course delegates had the opportunity to perform in small chamber ensembles and work as soloists with resident pianist Matthew McCombie. In addition the massed band also enjoyed working on a wide variety of repertoire, including 'Triumphant Rhapsody', 'Academic Festival Overture' and Tchaikovsky's 'Finale' from 'Symphony No.4', Philip Sparke's 'Triptych' and the classic Berlioz overture, 'Les Francs Juges'. However, perhaps the highlight of the Gala Concert was a wonderful performance of Elgar's 'Nimrod', which sent a shiver down everyone's spine."
The 2018 event marked the final appearance of Chris Cannings, a Summer School stalwart who has been the Band Manager since 1985. Administrator, Philip Biggs presented him with a commemorative plaque on behalf of everyone associated with the Summer School.
The 2019 Brass Band Summer School will take place from 4th — 10th August 2019, once again led by Richard Evans and world class tutors and attractions. Places can be booked now by contacting the Administrator, Philip Biggs: philipbiggs@bandstand.demon.co.uk
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