The Lydney Training Band has just hosted their annual 'Brass & Percussion Workshop' event, where over 40 participants of all ages and standards gathered of specialised music tuition under conductor and composer Tom Davoren and a team of tutors.

Several local bands took the opportunity to take part, from Bream and Lydney to as far afield as Lympstone and Axminster in Devon.

Trio of works

Tom opened the day with a full rehearsal of the three pieces they were to study – 'Prismatic Light' by Alan Fernie, 'The Belle of Chicago' by Sousa, and Peter Graham's 'Three Jazz Pieces' – specially chosen to showcase different styles and genres.

It was followed by a series of sectional rehearsals for more detailed exploration of the music, led by tutors Chris Howley (cornets), Ross Dunne (horns), Thomas Dunne (euphoniums and baritones), Tom Davoren (trombones and tubas) and Steve Barnett (percussion).

Concert finale

The players then got back together for a final intensive rehearsal before time for relaxation as tutors Thomas and Ross Dunne performed a duet, and cam under the microscope in a Q&A Session.To round things off, Tom Davoren led the full band in s short concert for family and friends featuring the works studied.

It was another great day, and it was lovely to see how the workshop continues to go from strength to strengthtutor, Chris Howley

Strength to strength

Chris Howley, who started playing with the Lydney Band and has supported the event as a tutor since it started four years ago, told 4BR: "It was another great day, and it was lovely to see how the workshop continues to go from strength to strength."

As for the players themselves, the reaction of Julia Powell summed things up: "We had a terrific time with an amazing final performance. It was breathtaking to see all the learners leap on board for an unparalleled musical journey. Huge thanks to Tom Davoren and the section tutors – and of course the team at Lydney Town Band and Lydney Training Band for offering this fabulous opportunity".

4BR was informed that the workshop will return again next year, so keep an eye out to take part yourselves.