Fountain leads free attractions at RBC Brass Extravaganza Day

James Fountain, Bones Apart, Ian Porthouse, Les Neish, Helen Varley, Chris Robertson, Paul Fisher lead a free day of brass tuition, masterclasses and workshops at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire this Saturday.

James Fountain will lead the attractions on a packed free day

Wednesday, 12 February 2025

The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's free 'Brass Extravaganza Day' takes place on Saturday 15th February in association with Conn Selmer. packed full of exciting masterclasses, workshops, taster sessions and performances.

Free

Over 70 people have already signed up for the free event which will kick off at 10.00am with an improvisational 'Massed Blast' led by Paul Fisher — a guarantee to put a musical spring in your step for the day ahead. It is open to everyone of all standards.

At the same time (10.00am to noon) RBC Head of Brass Band Studies, Ian Porthouse will lead a 'Conductors Workshop' — again open to anyone of any standard, who wants to get to grips with the baton. There will be a small brass ensemble to work with to gain extra invaluable hands-on experience.

Break out sessions

The Bones Apart quartet will also be on hand will lead a series of break out sessions alongside RBC tutors Helen Varley, Chris Robertson and Les Neish for tenor horn, euphoniums and baritones and tuba. These will take place from 1.00pm to 3.00pm.

All this and London Symphony Orchestra principal trumpet James Fountain will be giving his own public masterclass at 3.00pm with the opportunity for players to bring along their own music and get some incredible tuition.

To round off a packed free day, James Fountain will be the featured soloist with the RBC Brass Band in the special concert at 4.30pm4BR

Fountain feature

To round off a packed free day, James Fountain will be the featured soloist with the RBC Brass Band in the special concert at 4.30pm.

Speaking to 4BR, Paul Fisher of Conn Selmer said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for players to come along and enjoy a packed day of inspirational playing, teaching and enjoyment.

It's all free to gain insight and tips, tuition and teaching from James, Bones Apart, Helen, Chris and Les., and the round things off with a brilliant concert.

If you are playing your first notes or are really experienced, this is not to be missed."

Event links:

RBC Brass Extravaganza â€” Royal Birmingham Conservatoire | Birmingham City University

https://www.bcu.ac.uk/conservatoire/events-calendar/rbc-brass-extravaganza-15-02-2025

Workshop form:

RBC Brass Extravaganza 15th February 2025 (Page 1 of 4)
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=VeArfoqCI0W15bd62ZOXhf7BnFaevUpDq758c_lNk6JURVZWTkhBWVAwN1ZKSjBCT0lTUDRFRVg2Vy4u&route=shorturl

Video:

For a snapshot of life at RBC see the YouTube video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toGnmMyDRzI

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