One of the longest established Brass Band Summer Schools in the world recently drew to a rousing close with its Gala Concert at Culford School in Suffolk (above).
Established over 30 years ago, the course has welcomed literally thousands of delegates through its rehearsal room doors — with this year seeing musicians from the UK joined by players from the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Former Presidents
Former Presidents and Musical Directors have included such luminaries as Harry Mortimer, Philip Jones and Dr. Roy Newsome, and today this tradition continues with Bramwell Tovey as President and the inspirational Richard Evans as Musical Director.
This year's tutorial staff included David Childs, Owen Farr, James Fountain, Nicholas Hudson, Lee Skipsey, Steve Sykes and Brian Taylor — each giving a wonderful recital during the course of the week, culminating in a spectacular 'Tutors Ensemble' performance.
Repertoire
A spokesperson told 4BR: "During the course delegates had the opportunity to perform in small chamber ensembles and work as soloists with resident pianist Matthew McCombie.
In addition the massed band also enjoyed working on a wide variety of repertoire, including 'Triumphant Rhapsody', 'Academic Festival Overture' and Tchaikovsky's 'Finale' from 'Symphony No.4', Philip Sparke's 'Triptych' and the classic Berlioz overture, 'Les Francs Juges'.
However, perhaps the highlight of the Gala Concert was a wonderful performance of Elgar's 'Nimrod', which sent a shiver down everyone's spine."
Visiting guests
The course also welcomed a number of visiting guests to provide interviews, clinics and specialist tuition. The legendary Elgar Howarth treated aspiring composers and conductors with expert guidance, whilst Ralph Brill of the Irish Guards Band augmented the cornet tutorial staff.
Giles Whitham provided heritage insight through his historical instrument lecture, whilst Marcus Reynolds, the inventor of the Stratos embouchure device, was on hand for consultation lessons and coaching.
A great highlight also came with the presence of Mary Ginrich, the conductor of Prairie Brass Band (USA) and a former professional French horn player.
However, perhaps the highlight of the Gala Concert was a wonderful performance of Elgar's 'Nimrod', which sent a shiver down everyone's spineBrass Band Summer School
Final appearance
The event also marked the final appearance of Chris Cannings, a Summer School stalwart, who has been the Band Manager since 1985.
He had signalled his intention to retire this year, with Philip Biggs presenting him with a commemorative plaque on behalf of everyone associated with the Summer School.
The 2019 Brass Band Summer School will take place from 4th — 10th August 2019, once again led by Richard Evans and world class tutors and attractions.
Book now by contacting the Administrator, Philip Biggs: philipbiggs@bandstand.demon.co.uk
