This year’s short conducting course held by Ray Farr at Durham University has proved to be a major success once more judging from the feedback of both students and visiting lecturers.

Delgates

Ray Farr once again led the part time conducting course for delegates Colin Hoodless, Simon Jones, Roland Spencer, Per-Erik Petersen, Rowland Little, Steve Erley, John Wood, Paul Fisher, Dominic Brennan and Huw Thomas.

Masterclasses and workshops

Guest lecturers this year were Philip Sparke, Edward Gregson and Paul Patterson and the Reg Vardy Band in their capacity as Durham University Brass 'Band in Residence' provided music for the masterclasses and workshops.

Works studied this year included 'Music of the Spheres', 'Rococo Variations' and 'Chromascope' by Paul Patterson.

Works studied this year included 'Music of the Spheres', 'Rococo Variations' and 'Chromascope' by Paul Patterson4BR

Strong impression

Huw Thomas recently received his Master’s Degree from the University at a formal assembly in Durham Cathedral.

Huw is making a strong impression in the banding world as a conductor, having studied at Durham for the last two years under Elgar Howarth, Martin Ellerby, Philip Sparke, Edward Gregson and Paul Patterson.

Conducting masterclasses led by Ray Farr were with Grimethorpe Colliery, The Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai military band, Reg Vardy and Fishburn bands.

Exam test

Meanwhile, Dominic Brennan will be taking his examination concert for his Master’s Degree in Brass Band Studies on Sunday June 3rd. He will be playing with and conducting, Reg Vardy Band in a programme which includes 'Tallis Variations' by Philip Sparke.