Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) recently hosted their first ever brass band workshop led by euphonium star David Thornton.

Full day

Thanks to sponsors John Packer Ltd and Sterling Musical Instruments, David led an enthusiastic group of over 65 people of all ages and from as far afield as Launceston and Bristol, in a full day of mass band rehearsals, Q&A sessions, a solo recital and round-up performance.

During the day, three volunteer soloists performed unaccompanied in front of the delegates, with Josie Whale (horn), Holly Whale (trombone) and Anne Stone (cornet) producing high quality playing that was warmly appreciated.

Something for everyone

There really was something for everyone to enjoy — from instruments to try out provided by the sponsors, to lovely cakes baked by the ladies of the band and refreshments by the local Waitrose store.

Delegates also learnt of a scheme where old and unwanted instruments can be donated to the Kenya Trust. The trust is always on the lookout for old musical instruments that can be sent to the country for use in an innovative musical programme.

We learned such a lot from David, it was all well organised, the music making was fun.......and the cakes were delicious!Delegate

Delighted

The band was delighted with the response to their event — with one delegate telling 4BR: "It was an excellent day which I thoroughly enjoyed," whilst another added, "Three of us from Bideford Town Band enjoyed the workshop. We learned such a lot from David, it was all well organised, the music making was fun.......and the cakes were delicious!"