A long standing musical link between the National Youth Band of Great Britain and the Manx Youth Band has been further strengthened after the Isle of Man band became the first in the British Isles to become a 'Gold Friend' of the organisation and its younger sibling the National Children's Brass Band of Great Britain.

Great work

Manx Youth Band MD Ian Clague told 4BR that he was delighted to support the NYBB and NCBB: "In the Isle of Man we have a thriving brass band scene and have seen first-hand the great work these organisations provide.

In recent years, a number of our own young players have been selected to play for them and I know they've all enjoyed amazing experiences.

We did not hesitate to become a 'Gold Friend' and we are sure other bands will follow. It's the least we could do to help a body which affords such opportunities to young players, the benefits of which we've seen over the years."

Award winners

This year, Manx Youth Band's principal cornet Peter Smith (above), received the National Youth Band's prestigious Maud Wright Award — following in the footsteps of 2015 winner Ellen Quane.

In August, Peter was also presented with the Harold & Bernard Tovey Trophy in memory of the father and grandfather of the National Youth Band's Artistic Director Bramwell Tovey.

Quality teaching

Youth Band Chairman Ian Mansell added: "We are very pleased to be associated with both National Youth Bands. The quality teaching and help they provide towards the musical development of young people is priceless."

Thrilled

In response, Lisa Fitzgerald-Lombard, Friends of the NYBB and NCBB Administrator told 4BR: "We are thrilled that the Manx Youth Band has decided to support us in such a generous way.

We are delighted that our excellent relationship with the Isle of Man is continuing to thrive and hope their kindness will encourage other bands and individuals to support our young musicians too."

We are very pleased to be associated with both National Youth Bands. The quality teaching and help they provide towards the musical development of young people is pricelessYouth Band Chairman Ian Mansell

Friends

The 'Friends' was set up a number of years ago by former Musical Director, Dr Roy Newsome with the aim of financially supporting the activities of both the National Youth and National Children's Brass Bands.

NYBBGB Administrator Philip Biggs highlighted the continued value of the Friends to the current bands: "Becoming a 'Friend' is the best possible way of investing in the future of brass bands in Great Britain.

It helps keep course fees and associated costs as low as possible for the brass stars of tomorrow and today!"

Interested

Any band or person also interested in supporting the NYBBGB or finding out more information about the 'Friends' should email NYBBGBFRIENDS@hotmail.co.uk