As part of their preparation for the forthcoming Newtown Open Air Contest, Deiniolen Youth Band enjoyed a full day’s masterclass with Tredegar Band’s principal cornet player Dewi Griffiths.

Besson support

The Youth Band members certainly enjoyed the occasion which was supported by Besson Musical Instruments, with the players taught in their mother tongue by one of Welsh banding’s star performers. The end result saw their own-choice programme improved and polished to a new level ahead of the contest in a month’s time.

Delighted

Deiniolen Youth MD Osian Tomos told 4BR: “We were delighted to have Dewi back in North Wales to give a great masterclass as part of our contest preparation.

The players loved every minute: Dewi’s got such great enthusiasm which was passed on to the band, and his conducting and cornet skills showed just why he is regarded as one of the very best not just in Wales but the UK.

We are all very grateful to him and hopefully we can work together again in the future.”

Fantastic time

Meanwhile, Dewi added: “It was a real honour to be asked by Deiniolen to take part in the event, which was so well run and organised.

I had a fantastic day working with the youth band and was made to feel very welcome, even though I started my playing career with fierce rivals Llanrug!”

I was really impressed by the playing from every member of the youth band, and especially their enthusiasm throughout the dayDewi Griffiths

Impressed

He added: “I was really impressed by the playing from every member of the youth band, and especially their enthusiasm throughout the day, which led us to give a performance of the pieces to an audience of parents and family members at the end.

I wish the band the best luck for the upcoming contest and thanks must go to Osian for inviting me to take part. I had a great day!”