Celebrations were in order for regional qualifiers following the East of Scotland Solo & Ensemble Championships held at the Whitburn Academy on the weekend.

Packed day

Tenor horn star Owen Farr was on hand to judge a packed day of music making as well as host individual and group workshop sessions sponsored by Besson Instruments and Band Supplies, and he told 4BR: "It was my pleasure to assist in the education of some of Scotland's young brass players.

The future of brass bands in Scotland is certainly looking positive and I wish all the children who have taken the opportunities to perform or attend the workshop the very best with their future development.

You can't forget the tutors and teacher as well for the wonderful work they are doing with their pupils. Long may it continue."

Qualifiers

Players in the podium spots qualified for the 2016 Besson Scottish Solo & Ensemble Championship that will take place on the weekend of February 6th/7th.

SBBA project officer, Euan Meikle told 4BR: "It was a such an inspiring weekend showcasing that youth development and tuition in the east of Scotland is of such a high standard.

Having the talents and the unique outlook Owen was an absolute delight and an influence that has definitely inspired everyone who attended the solo and ensemble contests as well as the open workshops."

Thanks to sponsors

He added: "I'd like to thank everyone who participated and I look forward to seeing the qualifiers in action once again in a few weeks at the Besson Scottish Solo & Ensemble Championships. I'm also grateful to Band Supplies and Besson for sponsoring a very positive and successful weekend."

Delighted

Ronnie Tennant, Managing Director of Band Supplies, told 4BR: "We were delighted to support this tremendous weekend of events in the east of Scotland, including the workshops from Owen Farr.

His words of advice and encouragement were of immense benefit to delegates and audience members alike.

Band Supplies has enjoyed a long association with the brass band movement in Scotland and nurturing skills like solo and ensemble playing are vital to ensure the scene continues to thrive for many years to come."

The future of brass bands in Scotland is certainly looking positive and I wish all the children who have taken the opportunities to perform or attend the workshop the very bestOwen Farr

Results:

12 and under:
1. Ben Mapstone (Loanhead Brass Roots)
2. Emma Brown (Whitburn Youth Band)
3. Emma Jenkins (Newtongrange Junior Band)

16 and under:
1. Morgan Tait (Whitburn Heartlands)
2. Tanera Callaghan (St Margaret's Academy)
3. Amy Gray (Whitburn Heartlands)

16 and under ensemble:
James Young High School

21 and under:
1. Leighton Griffin (Newtongrange Silver Band)
2. Mark Elwis (Bathgate Band)
3. Andrew Pennycook (MacTaggart Scott Loanhead)

Bathgate Band