Euphonium player Ollie Hodgkiss has won the prestigious Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama Besson Solo Brass Prize.

The Ebbw Valley Band player's fine performance of the classic 'Believe Me if All those Endearing Young Charms' claimed the honours at the event at the Weston Gallery of the RWCM&D in Cardiff this week.

Others taking part were George Fearnly (horn), Cari Jones (euphonium), Gwen How (bass trombone), Tom Evans (trumpet) and Rhys Durrant (euphonium).

The adjudicators were Euan Meikle (Besson) alongside Roger Argente (RWCMD Head of Performance) and Tim Rhys Evans (RWCMD Director of Music)

Congratulations

Speaking 4BR about the success of the competition, Euan Meikle said: "Besson is proud to support the next generation of brass musicians, and we are thrilled to congratulate Oliver on winning this prestigious award.

His talent, dedication, and hard work have truly shone through, and we can't wait to see where your musical journey takes him next.

A huge well done to all the finalists for their outstanding performances — the future of brass music is in great hands!"