Over the past three years the University of Huddersfield, which has a long-established commitment to the development of wind, brass and percussion playing, has built a strong working relationship with the Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

It has been centred around an annual joint concert that has become a highlight of the University's wind band calendar, and which is led by led by Captain Gary Clegg MBE, Director of Music of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment, and Jim Fieldhouse, Director of the University Symphonic Wind Orchestra.

This year's concert takes place on Thursday 29th January at the University's concert venue, St Paul's Hall and will bring together student and military musicians.

Value

Speaking to 4BR, Jim Fieldhouse said: "The partnership offers genuine musical and professional value for the students involved. Several are currently supported by the Royal Corps of Army Music Bursary Scheme and others regularly attending rehearsals with the Regiment's band to gain first-hand experience of professional military music-making.

This link enhances the industry-focused training that underpins Huddersfield's music courses."

This link enhances the industry-focused training that underpins Huddersfield's music coursesJim Fieldhouse

Invaluable

Jim explained that the Army's band headquarters is located on the edge of the campus, just a five-minute walk from the Music Department, which also enables students to work directly with serving musicians.

He added: "This offers invaluable insight into the discipline, rehearsal culture and expectations of military music while exploring potential career pathways.

This year's concert showcases a varied and ambitious programme performed by the combined forces of the University Symphonic Wind Orchestra and the Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment. It promises an exciting evening of wind band music."