The final plans are being out in place for the forthcoming Foden's Youth Festival, which takes place on Sunday 22nd October at Sandbach School between 10.00am and 6.00pm.
It is the result of Foden's successful application to Arts Council England through its 'Grants for the Arts' initiative to produce an innovative three year strategic music and audience development plan.
Ambitious plan
This included the ambitious plan to run a non-competitive Youth Festival — the first of its kind, for a three year period, where six invited youth bands would perform individually during the day as well as being able to attend various masterclasses and fringe events delivered by leading brass performers.
To conclude the day a gala concert featuring Foden's Band will also see inclusive participation from players of each band.
Discussions to develop further
Discussions have already taken place with a number of UK conservatoires and universities about hosting the festival in 2018-19 and for it to become to become a full weekend event.
It is also hoped that it could become a major annual event in helping develop youth bands throughout the UK.
Constructive
Foden's Band Manager Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "The non-competitive festival is the next stage in our Youth Development Programme, which already includes running our own Youth and Junior Bands, annual Solo Contest as well as partnerships and coaching days with various local youth bands."
He added: "For this inaugural event, Foden's Youth and Junior Bands, Lions Youth, Stockport Schools, Poynton Youth and Keele University will each perform a 20 minute concert set where constructive feedback on each performance will be provided."
It is also hoped that it could become a major annual event in helping develop youth bands throughout the UK4BR
Composer award
Mark revealed that each band has also been asked to consider performing a piece that has been especially arranged or composed for them, whilst and a financial award will be given to the winning composer/arranger as well as to the respective youth band.
The object of the festival is to provide a fun and friendly event without competitive pressures.
Tickets
With demand for tickets expected to be high, audience numbers will be limited with entry only being allowed via purchasing a ticket in advance (not on the day) via the following link:
