Russell Gray to lead conducting seminar

Budding conductors have been invited to attend Russell Gray's conducting seminar.

BUDDING conductors are being invited to a seminar led by Russell Gray in West Lothian.

The event will see Russell, Musical Director of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland (NYBBS), join forces with Bathgate Band in Livingston from March 17 - 19.

Delegates can look forward to a series of workshops looking at baton technique and rehearsal approach, with practical advice and video reviews, culminating in a concert in Bathgate where all delegates will conduct the band.

In addition to the normal course, this year's event will include a foundation course for new conductors on March 18 and 19 featuring the Bathgate Youth Band. Russell Gray commented: “I'm looking forward to presenting my sixth conducting seminar in the UK and am delighted to continue the collaboration with the Bathgate Band. 

"Alongside the individual pieces the delegates will be working on, we will also focus on The Land of the Long White Cloud by Philip Sparke which Bathgate will have played at the previous week’s Scottish Championships. I am also delighted to welcome Stuart Black on to the faculty who will be leading the foundation course involving the Bathgate Youth Band.”

Bathgate Band President Gerry Duggan said: “After two very successful years working with Russell, we are thrilled at the prospect of hosting another workshop.

"We will hopefully have the test-piece in decent shape for the delegates but the weekend also gives us a great focus immediately after the Area contest in Perth. Most importantly, the involvement of our youth band in the foundation course is a great chance for our youngsters to continue to learn and develop.”

Course fees are £250 for the advanced course and £100 for the foundation course. Members of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors will receive a discount on participation fees for the course but places are limited.

Anyone looking to get involved should contact Russell Gray via his website, through messenger via Facebook, or by emailing rusgray@btinternet.com. 

Those looking to take part in the foundation course can contact Stuart Black at sblack.flugel@gmail.com.