The 2025 Skunkworks Community Summer Camp and International Low Brass Intensive has been hailed as a huge success after it saw over 140 musicians from Victoria, Australia, New Zealand and beyond come together for an extraordinary week of learning, performance, and camaraderie.
Inspiring
The camp offered three levels of ensembles, with Band One led by renowned trombonist and conductor David Bremner, who summed up his experience of the week by saying: "This was music education at its finest, and the positivity from tutors, helpers and players was so inspiring."
Speaking about what was on offer to musicians throughout the week, Phillipa Edwards OAM, Director of of Skunkworks Community told 4BR: "In addition to the music making, the musicians participated in choir sessions, 'compulsory morning walks', trivia games, a 'Race Around the World', electives, and performances at the Bright's Centenary Park venue.
The week culminated in a vibrant community concert during Rotary Victoria's annual Duck Race, which featured creative 'Red Faces' acts and a traditional post-performance dip in the river, providing both fun and growth opportunities for all involved."
Professional tuition
The camp and its excellent accommodation hosted an impressive line-up of professional tutors from the banding and orchestral worlds, including Jamie Lawson, Richard Shirley, Abbey Edlin, Aidan Purdy, Quinn Kellock, Moana Manu, Hetty Lawson, Patrick Lawrence, Nick Beale, Phillipa Edwards, Jason Campbell, and Rachael Shineton.
They led the participants through a wide range of activities, including sectionals, lessons, ensemble work, and individual solos, ensuring all players honed their skills in a supportive and inspiring environment.
This was music education at its finest, and the positivity from tutors, helpers and players was so inspiringDavid Bremner
Low Brass Initiative
Phillipa Edwards added: "One of the major features was the International Low Brass Intensive which also featured world-class professional clinicians such as Tim Buzbee, Amanda Tillett, Don Immel and Charles Villarrubia.
They provided attendees with masterclasses, warmups, audition preparation, and ensemble coaching, culminating in an exceptional end-of-camp concert."
Grow
Phillipa concluded: "We are hugely grateful to be supported by sponsors like Eastman Winds, WindCraft Repair, The Bright Chalet, The Victorian Bands League, as well as private donors.
This wonderful support ensures that the camp continues to grow in reputation and impact, cementing its place as a premier educational opportunity for brass and percussion musicians worldwide."
