Les Neish visits Galashiels
MUSICIANS in the Scottish Borders have celebrated after receiving a day of tips and masterclasses from some world class brass players.
Tuba virtuoso Les Neish joined cornet player Russell Gray and local tutors, Stuart Black and Alan Fernie, for a day of workshops and education work in Galashiels.
Hose pipes and coloured funnels were used to make instruments, cut to varying lengths in order to achieve different pitches. Participants, some as young as three-years-old, had the chance to receive expert guidance from Les, who started proceedings with games and team exercises.
Les, a Besson artist, commented: "The make-your-own instrument workshop was something I had thought about doing for many months and I was delighted that Stuart wanted to come on board with it.
"We had no idea what to expect but the turnout was tremendous. There were families making instruments together and 10 players had never played a brass instrument before, let alone perform in a concert.
"It was a really special day, full of fun and excitement. Delighted doesn't come close to how happy I was with the outcome."
All 20 musicians took part in the evening concert in the Volunteer Hall, which also featured the Galashiels junior, youth and senior bands under the baton of Stuart Black.
The 27-year-old reflected: "The day was a real success. It was partially about recruitment but also something that promoted a sense of inclusion while helping promote brass in the town.
"Les and Russell were inspirational, all three bands played well and we enjoyed a big crowd. We're already thinking about what we're going to do next to build on the success of this event and give youngsters more opportunities to learn from some of the best in the business."
