*
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    


Fodens

Foden's regional reach out for 2026

September 17 • If you want some of the Foden's Area Championship winning formula to rub off on you, then why not sign up for some early test-piece prep.


Brighouse

Brighouse principal is lead off for Banding Together

September 17 • In a new PR profile initiative for the event, Tom Smith talks about his link to the National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall.


Norway

Concerto test for Norwegian elite

September 17 • Flavours of Rumba, Ravel and riotous ostriches courtesy of Derek Bourgeois will test the Elite Division contenders at the 2026 Norwegian National Championships.


National Championships

2026 Regional Championship test-piece announced

September 17 • Works by Martin Ellerby, Andrew Wainwright, Philip Harper, Gordon Langford and Eric Ball will test bands in their qualification bids for the Albert Hall and Cheltenham next year.


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Dobcross Silver Band - Milnrow Band

Sunday 21 September • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards Big Band

Friday 26 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Brass Bands England - The Brass Band Conference

Saturday 27 September • Redhills Durham Miners Hall, Durham DH1 4BE


Haverhill Silver Band

September 17 • Haverhill Silver Band (Championship Section) seeks a FRONT ROW CORNET (position negotiable). This is a superb opportunity to join East Anglia's premier brass band for the L&SC area contest, the Senior Cup, Whit Friday and beyond.


Cheltenham Silver Band

September 16 • Required:. Musical Director : Cheltenham Silver Academy Band Following the relocation of our current conductor we are looking for a progressive, passionate and dedicated individual to lead our Academy Band, and to support our continued improvement.


Chinnor Silver

September 16 • We need a Bass player (either Bb or Eb) and a percussionist to join our happy team! The band is promoted to the first section in 2026 and were also 2025 Second section National Finalists. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings in our own bandroom in Chinnor


Mark Wilkinson


Cornet Soloist, Teacher, Adjudicator, Conductor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd