*
banner

German banding continues to build on sound foundations

Delegates at the 7th Jena Brass Seminar explored the benefits of 'good sound' led by international euph and tuba stars Bente Illevold and Dr. David Earll.

  Bente Illevold & David Earll (Photo Calm Vidal Photography) and Brass Band BlechKLANG worked togther

Delegates at the 7th Jena Brass Seminar recently enjoyed exploring how important a "good sound"is to their armoury of performance skills.

The event, supported by Besson and Buffet Crampon was led by Norwegian euphonium star Bente Illevold and US-American tuba virtuoso Dr. David Earll, who worked intensively with the musicians of different age groups on all aspects of control, production, style, balance and intonation.

The international duo, who perform together as 'The Northern Lights", also gave a masterclass performance supported by Brass Band BlechKLANG ahead of what was their performance at the recent German Open Championships.

Seminar weekend

The delegates certainly enjoyed the seminar weekend which saw section and full rehearsals alongside individual coaching and teaching from brass beginners to more seasoned professionals of all ages.

Reflecting on the seminar, Bente said: "There was a great passion for music on show as well as an incredible thirst for knowledge and a family atmosphere amongst the participants."

There was a great passion for music on show as well as an incredible thirst for knowledge and a family atmosphere amongst the participantsBente Illevold

Family approach

David added: "A 'family approach' was probably the best way to summarize the Jena Brass Seminar. It was a wonderful experience. Young musicians as well as experienced professionals worked together and improved their skills. This concept is what distinguishes this special masterclass event!"

The 7th Jena Brass Seminar was supported by Besson Company, Buffet Crampon, the Thuringian State Chancellery and the MAXX Hotel Jena.

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    


John Wallace CBE

Death of John Wallace CBE

January 12 • The death has been announced of one of the UK's most influential brass musicians.


Huddersfield

Huddersfield Uni strengthens link with Army

January 11 • The student connection between the University of Huddersfield Wind Band and the Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment continues to be strengthened under MD Jim Fieldhouse.


Sine Nomiee

Brookwright Music: Sine Nomine (Vaughan Williams arr. Andrew Wainwright)

January 11 • A wonderful set of four contrasting variations based on 'For all the Saints' by Ralph Vaughan Williams.


Matthew Jones

OBE recognition for Matthew Jones

January 11 • The Senior Producer and Deputy Chief Executive of National Youth Arts Wales has been awarded the OBE in the recent New Year Honours List.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Otley Brass Association

January 11 • Tenor Trombone Player needed for 6 week holiday cover with Otley Brass Band.. Practice is Tuesday nights 7.30-9.30pm at Otley Courthouse, LS21 3AN


Cambrian Brass

January 11 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn, Tenor Horn, Euphonium and EEb Bass positions.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Chris King

MBA, BMus(Hons), LRSM, AoBBA
Conductor, Arranger, Adjudicator, Compere, Band Trainer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd