The Wantage Silver Band recently hosted euphonium virtuoso Gary Curtin for what turned out to be a memorable weekend of exceptional music making.

The Sterling artist provided a masterclass for seven lucky young players as well as being a featured soloist with the senior Wantage Band, with his brilliant playing and engaging personality making a huge impression.

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The concert at Reading Central Salvation Army featured Gary in 'Dance of the Goblins', 'Evelin', his signature tour-de-force, 'Eire Time', and 'Efriede' which won him the 'Best Soloist' award at the 2017 Brass in Concert Championship.

The band also gave the audience a varied programme, including Eric Ball's 'Resurgam' and Lorne Barry's 'Credo'. A particular highlight of the evening was the euphonium duet 'Canto Della Terra' arranged by MD Paul Holland where Gary joined forces with Wantage solo euphonium Sam Wyne.

Jaw dropping

MD Paul Holland was delighted at the success of Gary's visit and told 4BR: "It was a great thrill for everyone to hear Gary perform with his jaw-dropping technique and artistry.

The organisation will continue to invite the very best players and motivators to help all members step closer to realising their own potential — but this will be a hard act to follow!"

This was a great weekend and so enjoyable. Under Paul Holland the band is obviously going from strength to strength backed by a great structure that also nurtures young playing talent at its heartGary Curtin

Great weekend

In response Gary added: "This was a great weekend and so enjoyable. Under Paul Holland the band is obviously going from strength to strength backed by a great structure that also nurtures young playing talent at its heart.

The masterclass was fantastic — and what a great future the band has with these young players coming through."

The band will now concentrate on its forthcoming appearance at the Welsh Open in Porthcawl on Saturday 17th February.