The UniBrass Foundation has announced the launch of its inaugural 'Artist in Association' project, funded by Arts Council England.

It will see three university brass bands pair with a professional soloist or conductor to support artistic exploration and reach new audiences.

Bristol, Durham and York University brass bands will work with high-quality solo artists and conductors to develop and rehearse new, creative performance ideas.

The projects will also involve performances from community and youth bands local to each university, helping to integrate the university brass bands within their community and to reach new audiences.

Trio

The University of Bristol Brass Band will be working with Ian Porthouse, MD of Tredegar Band and Director of Brass Band Studies at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Durham University Brass Band will be joined by Stephanie Binns, flugel horn of Black Dyke Band, whilst the University of York Brass Band will link with Ryan Watkins, MD of Hepworth Band.

Each university band will host a one-off performance in June 2022, joined by their guest artist and the community and youth bands they have been working with.

Community development

Thomas Hicken, Chair of UniBrass Foundation told 4BR: "It's really great to see university bands focusing on their musical and community development throughout the year, not just around the UniBrass contest in February.

We are thrilled to be able to support bands, as well as give opportunities to local professional musicians, and hope this can be the start of a long series of projects to improve access to music at such a crucial time in young people's development."

Bristol, Durham and York University brass bands will work with high-quality solo artists and conductors to develop and rehearse new, creative performance ideas4BR

Thrilled

Meanwhile, Stephanie Binns, of the Black Dyke Band added: "I'm thrilled to be part of this exciting scheme working alongside the musicians of the Durham Uni Band.

Having already been to one of their rehearsals, I know this is going to be a fantastic event for all involved."