Given that Roger Taylor, the famous drummer of rock group Queen, hails from Cornwall, it was entirely appropriate that the young players of the Cornwall Youth Brass Band ended their Easter Monday Gala Concert with the British premiere of a 30 minute tribute to the group by Norweigan trumpeter, Svein Giske.

Queen hits

Led by Allan Withington, who brought the arrangement with him from Norway, no less than nine of the groups hits were included, with the band’s guest soloist, Michael Dodd featured in ‘Love of My Life’.

Toe tapping

With movements and vocal contributions from the musicians, the well known melodies filled St Michael’s Church in Newquay with a mass of toe tapping sound, which brought an enthusiastic reception from the large audience.

With movements and vocal contributions from the musicians, the well known melodies filled St Michael’s Church in Newquay with a mass of toe tapping sound4BR

Dazzled

In the first half Michael dazzled the audience with several challenging solos, including ‘Zigeunerweisen’ by Sarasate. The Band also played some recent music by two young Cornish composers, Gareth Churcher and Simon Dobson, ‘The Last of The Mighty Few’ and ‘The Rother’.

Didgeridoo

As well as the intensive rehearsals, the musicians enjoyed informative workshops and demonstrations from both Allan and Michael, ensuring they are now better informed on such subjects as, conducting, circular breathing and even playing the didgeridoo.

Awards

During the Concert, the Chairman of the CYBB, Leonard Adams, presented the Annual Awards to Youngest Player, Justin Strike; Most Improved Player to Dominic Turner; Most Promising Player to Ryan Watson; AR Trudgian Award toYasmin Stevens withDominic Turner winning the WA Hunt as giving the Most Conspicuous Contribution to the CYBB.