Downshire Brass from Belfast is bolstering its percussion section for its appearance in the Challenge Section of the forthcoming European Championships in Freiburg.

The band has signed the well known percussionist and ‘Britain’s got Talent’ semi-finalist, Ashley Elliot.

Skills

Ashley is currently studying for a Music Technology Degree at Queen’s University in the city although he is also well known for his photographic skills, which regularly sees him at many of the major contesting events in the UK and Europe.

We are delighted to have Ashley on board and his experience, enthusiasm and commitment is going to be a major asset to our percussion team Conductor, Michael Alcorn

Delighted

Speaking of his signing, conductor Michael Alcorn told 4BR: “We are delighted to have Ashley on board and his experience, enthusiasm and commitment is going to be a major asset to our percussion team.

At the minute we are busy preparing the new set test piece ‘Orígenes’ for Freiburg, a work that requires four very experienced percussionists."

Euro prep

Downshire will also be taking part in the Brass Band League contest in Northern Ireland the week before travelling to Germany for the European event.