*
banner

King comes up trumps with American youth

Prof David King was the inspirational lead on the inaugural National Youth Brass Band of America course.

aMERICA
  Prof David King was the inspirational lead on the inaugural course

The inaugural National Youth Brass Band of America course certainly provided a fantastic opportunity for the nation's emerging brass band talent.

Led by the inspirational figure of Prof David King, it proved to be a ground breaking experience for the youngsters who took part, with the combination of hard work, fun and an inexhaustible supply of enthusiasm and talent making for a life changing event.

Principal cornet

One of those attending was Connor Johnson, who had the honour of being the first principal cornet of the National Youth Brass Band of America.

He told 4BR: "There were numerous opportunities to learn in sectionals and lessons, but one of the best educational experiences the course offered was having the tutors sit in with the students during rehearsals.

The clinics held throughout the week also gave great information on a wide range of topics including breathing, vibrato, conducting, repertoire, and composition.

Of these, the conducting clinic was definitely a highlight; Prof King shared not just his thoughts on conducting, but also valuable insights on musicianship in general."

The course was an excellent experience, bringing together outstanding musicians for a great week of learning, and sending us all off with new connections, friends and knowledgeConnor Johnson

Lectures

In addition there was the delegates also enjoyed a composition lecture presented by Andrew Wainwright, who discussed the role of each instrument within the band and gave helpful information for everyone regardless of each student's experience in composition.

Meanwhile, there was a fascinating history presentation on brass band repertoire given by Helen Harrelson which included an interactive portion in which the ensemble played sections of test pieces that have stood the test of time.

Premiere

Interestingly, the concert repertoire also included a new multimedia commission 'Avifauna' by Joshua Tyler Jameson that brought together elements of music, dance, and digital art combined with sound and light design.

Connor added: "The National Youth Brass Band of America was an excellent experience, bringing together outstanding musicians for a great week of learning, and sending us all off with new connections, friends and knowledge. We can't wait to do it all again."

Photo Credit: Andy Schwartz @ Veritography

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


podcast

4BR Review podcast: Lessons from Europe?

October 29 • Join the discussion on whether or not UK banding can learn from the way in which our European friends host their major championship competitions.


Gregson

Gregson at 80 in Scotland

October 28 • Music by and chosen by the acclaimed composer will be performed at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland this evening.


Paul Mealor

Foden's to premiere new Paul Mealor work at leading festival

October 28 • Foden's will give the world premiere of 'Tranquil Abiding' at St Asaph Cathedral as part of the North Wales International Music Festival.


Harry Porthouse

Porthouse reprise at Leyland

October 28 • Harry Porthouse takes over the principal cornet seat at Leyland Band from Lewis Barton — following in his father's footsteps.


Regent Hall Concerts - Central Band of the RAF

Friday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Amersham Band

Friday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Thaxted Church

Saturday 25 October • haxted Parish Church. Watling St, Thaxted CM6 2PE


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band VE & VJ Day Remembrance Concert

Saturday 25 October • St Mary’s Church Petworth GU28 OAD


Regent Hall Concerts - Paddington Brass

Friday 31 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

October 29 • Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

October 29 • Our inclusive non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has vacancies for: . . Soprano Cornet. Solo Cornet. 2/3 Cornet. .


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

October 29 • Our non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, seeks:. . 1st Horn . Solo Euphonium . 2nd Baritone .


Andreas Kratz

Mus.B (hons)
Conductor, Adjudicator, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd