At the recent annual convention of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors held in Blackpool, Smithills School Senior Band and MD Chris Wormald certainly enjoyed their lesson leading roles.

Chris told 4BR that it was an absolute pleasure to teach David Read MBE, Dr Roy Newsome, Colin Hardy and many others in the delights of Sibelius 6 notation software.

Fun

Chris said: "David Read in particular was great fun — 'far from unruly', and set the tone from the outset. On a more serious note, every delegate quickly got to grips with a working capability to use Sibelius and within twenty minutes, self-confessed luddites were thoroughly enjoying making their first ever arrangement using the medium."

To see well known conductors and adjudicators so emotional at the end of the Mahler spoke volumesMD, Chris Wormald

Tears

Following the Sibelius session, Chris conducted his band in a closing concert, which included an impressive performance of the finale of Mahler’s 'Resurrection', which Chris said moved some to tears.

Emotional

Chris told 4BR: "So many people have read about Smithills Senior Band over many years, but this year’s convention was the first time for many to experience its quality at first hand. To see well known conductors and adjudicators so emotional at the end of the Mahler spoke volumes. The immediate standing ovation by the delegates meant a great deal to the band members, as did the wonderful closing address by Dr. Newsome."