The University of Salford recently held its annual Ensembles Competition at its famous Peel Hall, where five outstanding groups of performers battled it out for the prestigious David Horsfield Ensemble Shield title sponsored by Geneva Musical Instruments.

Finalists

The finalists were made up of the 'Salford Six Piece', the brass quintet 'Musical Chairs", the perfectly named 'A Lower Brass Group' made up of a quartet of foundation and first year students, and a Euphonium & Baritone ensemble brilliantly called, 'Euph Gota be kidding me'.

It was an exceptionally close affair this year with all ensembles producing excellent performances for the panel of Dr Robin Dewhurst, Dr Brett Baker and Simon Miller from Geneva Musical Instruments to consider.

The standard on show at this event has grown each year, and the panel was thrilled to hear playing of the very highest quality. It made for a very difficult decisionDr Brett Baker

Highest quality

Brett told 4BR: "The standard on show at this event has grown each year, and the panel was thrilled to hear playing of the very highest quality. It made for a very difficult decision."

Eventually it was the 'Salford Six Piece' that claimed the honours just ahead of runner-up 'Musical Chairs' whilst the award for 'Best Arrangement or Composition' was won by final year student James Atkins.