17 year old trombonist Isobel Daws was crowned 2017 BBC Radio 2 Young Brass Award winner at the RNCM in Manchester on Friday evening.
Clear winner
The hugely impressive Fairey Band player was the 'clear winner' according to the judges against a high-class field of young rivals. Her stunning rendition of Gordon Langford's 'Rhapsody for Trombone' saw her become only the second trombone player to claim the prestigious award following in the footsteps of 2009 winner Stephen Sykes.
It was also the fourth time that the final had been broadcast live on Radio 2, with the evening hosted by presenter Clare Teal alongside Frank Renton. The soloists were splendidly accompanied by Foden's Band under Michael Fowles.
Langford work
Isobel's choice of Gordon Langford's iconic work, written for the great Don Lusher back in 1976, was a poignant one, following the news of the recent death of composer aged 86.
However, it was also given a performance that saw it described as a 'clear winner' according to the judges, David Childs, Philip Harper and Becky Smith — a superb achievement given the quality of the playing from fellow finalists, Ellena Newton, Siobhan Bates and James Nash.
As part of her prize, Isobel, who studies at Chethams School in Manchester, and who is the daughter of renowned Salvation Army musician David Daws, will now have the opportunity to showcase her talents at the Gala Concert following the British Open Championships at Symphony Hall in September.
Not sunk in yet
"It's still a bit surreal,"Isobel told 4BR. "I'm very happy and thrilled of course, but it hasn't quite sunk in yet. The other players were brilliant and my congratulations go to them as well."
Isobel explained that she had chosen the Langford work as it was one of her favourites. "It's a great piece to perform and I've loved it ever since I heard a recording of Don Lusher playing it.
I've been lucky to play it a couple of times with my former band at Friary Guildford and have had a few run through with my current band at Fairey. It's such a wonderful work and I was so sorry to hear of the composer's death."
She added: "I have a year to go at Chetham's and then I hope to study at the Royal Academy in London. I would love to have a musical career playing trombone, but I know that is plenty more hard work to follow this — starting on Monday morning! I'm very grateful for the opportunities this award will bring."
I'm very happy and thrilled of course, but it hasn't quite sunk in yet. The other players were brilliant and my congratulations go to them as wellIsobel Daws
Congratulations
Lewis Carnie, Head of Radio 2 told 4BR: "Congratulations to Isobel on being crowned winner of the Young Brass Award 2017 and to all the finalists. Radio 2 is committed to supporting brass band music and very proud to provide a platform for emerging new talent coming out of the brass tradition."
On a memorable evening of music making, Isobel battled for the title against a trio of super fellow musicians in trombonist, Ellena Newton, horn player Siobhan Bates and flugel performer, James Nash.
Ellena, 17, was the first to perform with Philip Wilby's 'White Knuckle Ride' and 'Bolivar' by Eric Cooke, whilst Siobhan showcased, 'Over the Rainbow' and 'A New Dawn' by Christopher Bond. James Nash performed Philip Sparke's Moon Song, Sun Dance'.
Presentation
In addition to the competitive element, Foden's, the reigning North West Area champion delivered a terrific pre-results concert featuring co-host, Clare Teal.
The presentation of the trophy was made by 2016 winner, Daniel Thomas, who took the opportunity to encourage all young players to enter the competition after he had enjoyed what he said had been ' a memorable, unforgettable year' as champion.
Listen again
To listen to Isobel's winning performances and the final, which should be available for around 28 days, click on the following link:
