News from the World of Brass Bands

News from Burghclere School Band

Children starting from just six years old, most of whom have never picked up a brass instrument before, are led into the wonderful world of music by Mr Ferrier through his clever combination of encouragement, cajoling and discipline. Not only do the children learn how to play a brass instrument to a high level of competence, with the aim of achieving national music grade exams in their chosen instrument, but also many social skills that will stand them well for later life. Playing in a dedicated brass band generates immense life skills for music and work - being able to work together, to listen to others and adapt your input accordingly and, ultimately, the confidence to stand on a platform and perform in front of an audience. Mr Ferrier unfortunately will be leaving at the end of the Summer term due to relocation and the Band is currently looking for a replacement. If you are interested in the position (the role is paid) please send your CV with covering letter to the Band Secretary - Alison Stanton c/o Burghclere Primary School, Burghclere, Hampshire RG20 9HT. For further information please telephone Mark Forson on 01635 253092 or 07944 855979.

The Band are next performing 'A Summer Brass Extravaganza' concert on Saturday 13th June, at The Clere School Burghclere with a performance from the Hampshire County Training Band. Hampshire Music Service funds and provides a pyramid of three brass bands at county level (County Band, Training Band and Junior Band) for brass and percussion students resident in Hampshire. The concert starts @ 7.00 pm Bar & Barbeque from 6.30pm. Tickets will be available at the door at £6 per person- schoolchildren free.

Mark Forson

13/5/09

They're in the Army Now

During a sell-out Viennese Concert at the Regent Centre Christchurch, Jonathan Camps, Conductor of Bournemouth Concert Brass, announced that two long-term members would be joining the Army.

Jenny Maddocks, who played 1st horn for the band for 5 years, will be training as a Captain at Sandhurst specialising in Legal Services.

Dan Shave, who played bumper-up and latterly principal cornet the band for 3years, will be signing up as a musician in the Army Air Corp Band, based at Middle Wallop on Salisbury Plain.

However, all is not sadness at Bournemouth because, in recent weeks, the band has made a number of important signings. They officially welcome Paul Sycamore on Baritone; Lloyd Bartlett, Phil Biles and Tomek Sowinski-Brown on Trombone; Matty Sowinski-Brown, Lois Kidby and Peter Croucher on Cornet; and finally Katy Lush and Alfie Hughes on 1st and Solo horn.

Band Chairman, Ken Taken told us, "Although it is always sad to see players leave, we are absolutely delighted with the new influx of players to fill their seats and help us prepare for the new contest season."

Stephen Didcott

15/1/09