The organising body of the 2018 National Youth Band of Wales course has told 4BR that they have been delighted by the response from players and listeners alike to the recent annual course led by Cory MD Philip Harper.

After a week of intensive rehearsal in Carmarthen, the band performed three concerts in Neath, Newtown and Cardiff, attracting large and appreciative audiences at all three events — whilst a new initiative encouraging the next generation of potential new recruits entitled 'Sit & Play' also proved very popular.

Feedback

Alexandria James from National Youth Arts Wales told 4BR: "We had a great week and I'm still receiving some fabulous feedback.

The success is down to a great tutor team led by Philip Harper, inspiring music to perform and bags of talented young players to play it. We've also reached out to the next generation all eager to one day represent their nation in their National Band. It's been a great success, and one we hope to build on in 2019."

Pleasure

In response Philip Harper told 4BR that it was a real pleasure to lead the band once again and to see emerging talent coming through from all parts of Wales.

"It was a super week of music making. I think it's our responsibility to introduce the players to new as well as existing major repertoire — so that's why I programmed Tom Davoren's 'Legacy' as well as 'The New Jerusalem' and 'Resurgam' to go with works of different styles and genres.

The commitment and concentrated musical endeavour on display in all three concerts was testament to the hard work and talent of the players."

The commitment and concentrated musical endeavour on display in all three concerts was testament to the hard work and talent of the playersPhilip Harper

Talent

He added: "The National Youth Brass Band of Wales has such an important part to play in the future health and prosperity of banding in Wales and the signs after this week it was clear that there is so much talent that can be nurtured for the benefit of bands in all parts of the country."

Led by principal cornet and Tutor Award winner, Owain Llestyn Thomas from North Wales, the annual award winners this year were flugel player Cerys Hughes who was presented with the John Childs Memorial Trophy, Samantha Ford (Friends Award) and Joshua Ireland (percussion award).