Players of the Manx Youth Band and Manx Concert Brass recently welcomed members of ‘Double Champions’ Foden’s to the Isle of Man for a weekend of workshop rehearsals.

Intensive

Over three intensive days, Mark Wilkinson, Glyn Williams, Helen Williams and John Barber put both bands through their paces.

The Manx Youth Band worked on pieces in preparation for this year’s Manx Music Festival at the end of April, including Edward Gregson’s ‘Voices of Youth’ which the band will play in the test piece class.

During the weekend some 40 young players aged 7 to 18 attended the workshops and enjoyed the opportunity to work with Foden’s star players.

During the weekend some 40 young players aged 7 to 18 attended the workshops and enjoyed the opportunity to work with Foden’s star players4BR

Exam success

Ian Clague MBE continues to take the band from strength to strength and is always keen for any opportunity to help the young players improve their ability and develop their interest in music.

He told 4BR: "Prior to Christmas 24 players took Associated Board music exams, and I was delighted that with the support of a small team of helpers all passed their exams, which ranged from Grade 2 to 6."

Return

Meanwhile, rehearsals with the Manx Concert Brass focussed on Gareth Wood’s ‘Brass Triumphant’, which the band will play as their test piece in the First Section of the North West Regional Finals in March.

Foden’s will return to the Isle of Man later this year when they will play a concert in the Villa Marina Royal Hall on Saturday 13th July, to mark the impressive venue’s 100th anniversary of opening to the public.