The low brass quartet, 'When Tuba Come One' has claimed first prize at the International Tuba Euphonium Ensemble Association (ITEA) competition held at the University of Iowa.

The foursome from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire of Amy Ewen (baritone), Ben Smith (euphonium) and tuba players James Hobbis and Mark Dilley raised the funds to travel to the USA where they competed against 11 low brass ensembles to claim the $2,000 first prize.

Inspirational

Amy told 4BR: "We've now arrived back in the UK after what can only be described as an eye opening and incredible musical experience.

We have met some inspirational musicians — and our special thanks go to John Manning and all of his students from the University of Iowa who have been so accommodating in hosting us."

She added: "To qualify was a privilege in itself and would not have been possible without the tutoring and support from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire."

We've now arrived back in the UK after what can only be described as an eye opening and incredible musical experienceWhen Tuba Come One

Congratulations

One of the first people to offer his congratulations on the achievement was RBC tutor Matthew White, who said: "I'm over the moon for the quartet and offer my massive congratulations. ITEC really is like the Olympics of euphonium and tuba playing, and to win against such stiff competition is a huge achievement.

They won over the judges, other competitors and audience alike with engaging programming, musicality and a great sense of fun on and off the stage."