Delegates on the Wessex Band Summer School rounded off the 52nd annual course on the weekend with an outstanding concert in Sturminster Newton in Dorset.

Following a week of musical tuition at Sturminster Newton High School, the Training, Wind and Brass Bands each took to the stage to display a wide variety of works in different genres.

Training toes

It began with a toe-tapping, 'sing-along' spectacular from the Training Band, featuring 'Bohemian Rhapsody', 'Slaidburn', 'Jai Ho' and much more. The Brass and Wind Bands then shared the stage with pieces from the likes of Philip Sparke, Simon Dobson and Martin Ellerby.

The finale saw the joint forces of the massed band of the Wessex Band Summer School perform Peter Graham's 'Windows of the World'.

Potential

Speaking about the course, delegate Elizabeth Lowe told 4BR: "I always love the concert as everyone puts on a fantastic show and you can really see so much potential for the future with the Training Band players.

The tutors are incredibly passionate about what they do to help throughout the course with people I now consider friends for life. I would recommend it to anyone!"

The tutorial staff were led by Course Musical Director, Michael Fowles alongside music professionals many of whom are former Wessex Band students.

Highest standards

Speaking about the success, Mike told 4BR: "We have a music staff that create such a fun atmosphere whilst encouraging the highest musical standards — great musicians but great people too.

It was fantastic to see the Training Band back with a brilliant concert performance alongside the Brass and Wind Bands. It was a communal display of high levels of musicianship, showcasing the incredible amount of hard work put in. I was a very proud course Musical Director".

I'm so very proud of what we have to offer. As the oldest course of our type we continue to push boundaries under the inspirational leadership of Mike and his great team of tutorsCourse Chairperson, Matt Stimpson

Push boundaries

Course Chairperson, Matt Stimpson was also delighted, and added: "I'm so very proud of what we have to offer. As the oldest course of our type we continue to push boundaries under the inspirational leadership of Mike and his great team of tutors.

Having the Training Band back for the first time since Covid really completed our ever-growing family. We are grateful to the support shown by Geneva and the Dennis Chalk Memorial Trust in ensuring the course continues to develop. We are already excited about the 2024 course, and we hope to see you there!"

Return

The 53rd Wessex Band Summer School will take place from Monday 29th July 2024 until Saturday 3rd August 2024.

Applications for the 2024 course are now open and available from www.wessexband.com