Banders scoop 2 Classic FM Teacher of the Year Awards
Lancashire-based Helen Minshall has been announced as the winner of Visiting Music Teacher and Bratton Brass Roots won the award for Best Music Learning Initiative in the 2024 Classic FM Music Teacher of the year awards. Celebrating the outstanding work and contribution made by music teachers across the UK, the awards, in partnership with ABRSM, were revealed last week on the channel's daily Breakfast show.
Helen's work visiting schools spans across her role as Youth Development Brass Specialist for Brass Bands England’s Brass Foundations programme as well as her work at Lancashire Music Service. Alongside her work in schools, Helen runs her own teaching company Minshall Music and is involved with a number of youth bands in the North West including serving as Musical Director for Lancashire Youth Brass Band and Astley Youth Band.
Commenting on Helen’s win, the judges said: “Helen’s commitment to music teaching shines out. She has shared her love of brass instruments with countless pupils throughout her long career. Bands have flourished as she has fostered a love of music with successive generations of young musicians.”
Helen commented: "I feel very privileged to have a job doing something I’m passionate about and to be able to celebrate like this means the world! Thank you to all my wonderful students and colleagues at Lancashire Music Hub, Brass Bands England, Minshall Music LTD, Astley Youth Band, More Music for all your ongoing support and to all the children and staff at the many schools I am lucky enough to visit regularly." Helen has won £3,000 worth of musical prizes, which she plans to donate to Lancashire Youth Brass Band.
In Wiltshire, celebrations have also been taking place following the news of Bratton Brass Roots’ success. Bratton Brass Roots, led by the amazing Lydia Grace-Hills and her dedicated team of volunteers including Margaret, Nick, Anita, Kirsty, Maria, Katherine, Lisa, Amanda & Seamus, were delighted with the news that they are the winners of the Classic FM ‘Best Music Learning Initiative’ award! Commenting on social media a spokesperson for the inititave stated, “This national award honours efforts to bring music to children, equipping them with the skills to become the talented musicians of tomorrow. Bratton Community Brass Bands has worked tirelessly to bring this project to life, and we are thrilled to win the £3,000 which will help us to continue this amazing work!”
The judges were particularly taken with the Bratton Brass Roots initiative, describing it as a fun and supportive club for young learners. They stated, “This really is music at the heart of community, inspiring the next generation of Brass Banders! We were literally blown away by the energy and enthusiasm of the Bratton Community Brass Bands – making music in the heart of Wiltshire. With a programme of concerts, events, rehearsals and activities the invitation is for anyone to get involved – and they do!”
The award-winners are invited by Classic FM to the station’s Live prestigious annual event at London's Royal Albert Hall on 21st October, to receive their certificates live on stage.
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