Its certainly been a great first year for the Rhonda Fach Youth Band, formed in October 2014 by bringing together the youth sections of Tylorstown and Ynyshir Bands.

Gold awards

During 2015 they took part in the youth section events of all three Welsh League competitions, gaining Gold Awards at each, and seeing players as young as five (such as Noah Davies above) take to the stage for the first time.

The band incorporates abilities from first note blowing beginners to established youth players — with an age range of 5 — 18. The band also benefits from the experience of senior players of both connected bands offering free tuition.

It's been a fantastic year. We've enjoyed great contest success and we are looking forward to building on this in 2016, starting the year with the Band Cymru competition in JanuaryConductor Angela Westacott

Fantastic year

Conductor Angela Westacott told 4BR: "It's been a fantastic year. We've enjoyed great contest success and we are looking forward to building on this in 2016, starting the year with the Band Cymru competition in January.

We are also looking forward to introducing new contests to our calendar in order to give the youth members more experiences."

National Youth

During the year principal cornet Katie Hill gained a place on the National Youth Brass Band of Wales as well as many of the other children passing their instrumental grade exams.