Lydney Training Band from the Forest of Dean recently hosted a masterclass aimed at less experienced players belonging to local training bands, led by Tom Davoran.

Involved

45 players from Lydney, Cinderford, Pillowell, Lydbrook and Forest of Dean Brass came together for a great day of constructive music making and development, as Tom kept everyone involved with his mix of humour and obvious love of music.

New skills and techniques were developed along the way, helped by carefully selected music, including one of Tom’s latest compositions.

Tom was ably assisted by Chris Weston and Chris Howley, both ‘old friends’ of Lydney Training Band conductor, Kevin Ford, with the ‘Q&A’ session in particular proving to be very popular.

Great success

The event was organised by Kerry Ford, Lydney Band Youth Development Officer, and was a resounding success, with many attendees already wanting to be booked in for next year.

One thing it did show was that many bands in the Forest of Dean are putting every effort into encouraging youngsters which will help the brass band movement in the area to continue to thriveSpokepserson

Encouraging

A spokesperson told 4BR: "One thing it did show was that many bands in the Forest of Dean are putting every effort into encouraging youngsters which will help the brass band movement in the area to continue to thrive."