The Yorkshire Youth Band has just completed its autumn gathering at Saddleworth School.

Supported by Besson Musical Instruments, the band was formed in 2006 by Black Dyke Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs and has since developed into one of the most successful organisations aimed at developing young brass band playing talent in the country.

Black Dyke stars

The weekend's music making was led by Black Dyke stars Brett Baker and Richard Marshall assisted by other members of the band, including Dan Thomas, Siobhan Bates, Matt Routley, Harry Cunningham, John O'Brien, David Smith, Matt Rigg and course administrators Alison and Rebecca Childs.

For Prof Childs, the latest course once again demonstrated the remarkable thirst for brass band music making of the youngsters involved. "Each course has an incredible buzz of anticipation and eagerness,"he told 4BR.

"You feel it as soon as the doors open and the young players race in ready to enjoy themselves."

Fun

The busy weekend saw the band work hard on Rodney Newton's 'World Tour' and Philip Harper's 'Olympus', as well as having great fun with Alan Fernie's 'Kabalagala', and bring to life one of the great classic brass band marches, 'The Chieftain'.

Prof Childs added: "I'm always amazed by the concentration given to produce great performances even at the end of a long day, but it is always done with huge smiles on the faces!"

Each course has an incredible buzz of anticipation and eagerness. You feel it as soon as the doors open and the young players race in ready to enjoy themselvesProf Nicholas Childs

Next course

The next Yorkshire Youth Band course will be on Sunday, 18th February, where the band will start their preparations for the 2018 Black Dyke Festival.

Each course consists of massed warm-ups, sectionals, full band, Q&A sessions, tutoring and advice, plus an end of the day concert.

New members are always welcome and should contact Course Administrator, Alison Childs on alison4horn@btinternet.com