International Brass Summer School invite
BRASS players living in Scotland have been invited to get their applications in for the International Brass Band Summer School (IBBSS) 2016.
The course is due to take place from July 31 until August 6, 2016 and comes after the 2015 event at the University of Wales, Swansea, was hailed a success, featuring delegates from the USA, Norway, Japan and Australia. Director of the course was Professor Nicholas Childs and he was assisted by a high-profile team of tutorial staff including: cornets, Richard Marshall and Chris Turner; horns, Owen Farr; euphoniums, Gary Curtin and David Thornton; trombones, Brett Baker; basses, Joseph Cook and Matthew Routley.
With more than 120 delegates, there were two individual bands, Sovereign and Prestige, enjoying programmes which included works by special guest and featured composer, Peter Graham. The event culminated with a grand finale of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture performed by massed bands.
The general timetable included individual lessons, playing in small ensembles and a fun packed Brass in Concert entertainment contest. Also featuring was a quiz night with a live music section, led by Quizmaster Matthew Routley.
Alison Childs, IBBSS course administrator, commented: "We would like to thank the generous support from music publishers, including Prima Vista, Kirklees, Wright and Round, Obrasso and Gramercy.
"The aim is to balance a general improvement in overall playing standards with making new like-minded friends, whilst enjoying a little more time in the sun amidst great surroundings. The International Brass Band Summer School also caters for non-participating and non-residential visitors.
"For those who want to brush up on their brass band skills whilst their partners soak up the sun in a sublime environment, rest assured, this was Christmas in the summer!"
This year saw a new initiative with conducting workshops that covered conducting for beginners to stylistic approaches and contemporary baton techniques. A highlight of every day was the evening recital where one of the tutors would give a breathtaking display.
More information on IBBSS is available by calling Alison Childs on 07802 771735 or getting in touch via email.
The International Brass Band Summer School was made possible by the support of partners including Besson, World of Brass, The British Bandsman, Trevada Music, GK Design, Rath, Geneva and Kapitol Promotions.
