The cream of North-East Scotland's young brass talent was on display at the Northern Counties Sols & Ensemble contest in Carnoustie recently.

As well as the prestigious NCBBA titles, there was a further incentive for participants, with the event also serving as the regional qualifier for the Besson Scottish Solo & Ensemble Final in February.

Bowled over

Adjudicator Gareth Bowman confessed to being 'bowled over' by the standard of playing on show, remarking that awarding the placings had been a tough task, with only a whisker separating the players in several cases.

This was particularly so in the closely-fought 'Under-12' category, with all competitors gaining a Gold Award, and Gareth commenting that it was a shame that only the top three could go through to the Finals, such was the level of performance.

In the end though, it was Emily McGhee's sparkling rendition of the 'Rondo' from 'Mozart's Fourth Horn Concerto' that won the day, with Lucy Crabb and Elita McFarlane joining here in the finals as runners-up.

Quality performances

The 'Under-16' class featured some quality performances of challenging repertoire, with Marcello Rufo's vibrant 'Napoli' coming out on top from Finlay McGhee and Holly Bennett. The Carnoustie 'A' ensemble pipped their 'B' group to the ensemble prize, with Rhegan Fraser taking home the 'Under-21' solo trophy on Stan Nieuwenhuis' devilish 'This Wicked Struggle'.

Open Slow Melody

The day was rounded off with the NCBBA Open Slow Melody contest, where Rhegan Fraser added to her silverware collection. Her moving performance of Peter Graham's 'A Time For Peace' found favour with the adjudicator to claim the Senior title, with Lucy Crabb winning the Junior prize.

The Besson Scottish Solo & Ensembles championship finals will be held in Livingstone on Saturday 4th February.

Adjudicator Gareth Bowman confessed to being 'bowled over' by the standard of playing on show, remarking that awarding the placings had been a tough task, with only a whisker separating the players in several cases4BR

Results:

Junior Solo: (under 12 years)

1. Emily McGhee (Gold)
2. Lucy Crabb (Gold)
3. Elita McFarlane (Gold)

Thomas Kobine (Gold)
Ailish Gracie (Gold)
Alix Bailey (Gold)

Intermediate Solo: (under 16 years)

1. Marcello Rufo (Gold)
2. Finlay McGhee (Gold)
3. Holly Bennett (Gold)

Rosie Martin (Gold)
Gavin Lee (Gold)
Jamie Winterton (Silver)
Iona McFarlane (Silver)

Intermediate Ensemble:

1. Carnoustie 'B' (Gold)
2. Carnoustie 'A' (Gold)

Youth Solo: (under 21 years)

1. Rhegan Fraser (Gold)
2. Kirsty Randalls (Gold)

Open Slow Melody:

1. Rhegan Fraser — 88pts (Open Slow Melody champion)
2 = Lucy Crabb — 86pts (Junior Slow Melody champion)
2= Frazer Stewart — 86pts
4. Karen Stewart — 85pts