Debut for Euphonium Foundation UK
Euphonium Foundation UK 's debut education event took place on Saturday May 27th at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff. Led by Artistic Director and Founder, David Childs, the free Euphonium Focus Day was a great success, bringing together 42 euphonium and baritone players for a fun-filled day of education and music-making.
Delegates were treated to masterclasses and recitals from David Childs, Robert Childs and special guest Steven Mead. The event showcased new repertoire for the euphonium including Martin Smith’s terrific rendition of the 1st movement of the Capuzzi ‘Double Bass Concerto’ as well as a sneak peak of Peter Graham’s new work for euphonium, ‘Force of Nature’ masterfully delivered by David Childs.
Amongst the highlights of the day were two duet appearances: Robert Childs joined Steven Mead in ‘The Devil’s Waltz’ following Steven’s excellent solo set, before then joining son David to ‘roll back the years’ and perform ‘Brilliante’ to the delight of all in attendance. Special mention must go to pianist Chris Williams, who provided world-class accompaniment to the many challenging works on display. There was even time to feature the Euphonium Ensemble of the RWCMD as they accompanied David in ‘Donegal Bay’ before sharing the lime-light with the day’s solo artists for a fabulous arrangement of ‘Carnival of Venice’.
A small ensemble of younger delegates, aged 10 to 13, had the opportunity to showcase what they had been working on, before the day concluded with a ‘massed blow’ featuring works such as ‘William Tell’, ‘Olympic Spirit’ and ‘Sleeping Tuba Waltz’. Commenting on the day David Childs stated, “I’m delighted that so many delegates were able to join us for this first event; it’s been a wonderful experience for us all. Many thanks to all of our featured artists, participants, volunteers and sponsors including the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and of course Besson Brass.
Euphonium Foundation UK is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) whose objectives include the commissioning of new works of high quality to promote the euphonium in the wider world of musical arts, in addition to developing a better understanding of the euphonium and its capabilities through education, whilst maintaining and increasing public awareness of the instrument through the support of other euphonium related projects. Further information about Euphonium Foundation UK including a slideshow and photographs from the day can be found at the charity’s new website: https://www.euphoniumfoundation.uk/?fbclid=IwAR0xEzjduduB5yr0pg5Qho4-APlWB0EoeLo1F-z6sc5p704drXGdezNU53o and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093005386875
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